Delicious Stir-fried Squid with Holy Basil: A Simple Thai Recipe

Craving a quick, flavorful, and authentic Thai dish? Look no further than this recipe for stir-fried squid with holy basil! This vibrant dish showcases the tender sweetness of squid perfectly complemented by the fragrant punch of holy basil, a key ingredient in Thai cuisine known for its unique peppery and slightly anise-like flavor. With minimal ingredients and a surprisingly simple technique, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with a taste of Thailand. The fresh herbs and spicy chili create a balanced explosion of flavor that will leave you wanting more.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-follow recipe, as we guide you through each step, from prepping the ingredients to creating a mouthwatering masterpiece. This step-by-step guide ensures even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and effortlessly you can whip up this delicious Thai delight.

Tools Needed

  • Pan
  • Mortar and pestle

Ingredients

  • Squid: 2 large
  • Flour: a little
  • Chili
  • Garlic
  • Oyster sauce
  • Betel leaves
  • Sand tears
  • Fish sauce
  • Seasoning powder
  • Black sesame
  • Holy basil leaves
  • Coconut milk: a little
  • Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Squid

  • Cut up the squid, wash them, and knead them with a little flour, chili, and garlic.
Cut up the squid, wash them, and knead them with a little flour, chili, and garlic.
Prepare the Squid

Step 2. Stir-fry Aromatics and Squid

  • Heat up a pan and add oil. Wait until it's hot enough.
  • Add the chili and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until yellow and fragrant.
  • Add the squid and stir-fry using high heat to prevent shrinking.
  • Stir-fry vigorously for a while. Don't stir-fry for too long.
Heat up a pan and add oil. Wait until it's hot enough.Add the chili and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until yellow and fragrant.Add the squid and stir-fry using high heat to prevent shrinking.Stir-fry vigorously for a while. Don't stir-fry for too long.
Stir-fry Aromatics and Squid

Step 3. Add Sauce and Seasoning

  • Add a little water, coconut milk, oyster sauce, fish sauce, seasoning powder, and black sesame (optional).
Add a little water, coconut milk, oyster sauce, fish sauce, seasoning powder, and black sesame (optional).
Add Sauce and Seasoning

Step 4. Finish with Holy Basil

  • Add the holy basil leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
  • Serve and enjoy!
Finish with Holy Basil

Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)

Tips

  • Use high heat throughout the cooking process to keep the squid tender.
  • If you don't like black sesame, you don't have to add it.
  • Add a little bit of water while stir-frying to help cook the squid.
  • Don't overcook the holy basil leaves.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the holy basil?

While holy basil is ideal for its unique flavor, you can try Thai basil as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, less peppery, but still delicious.

2. What if I don't have fish sauce?

Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce, but the flavor will be less complex. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preference.


This simple yet flavorful stir-fried squid with holy basil recipe is a testament to the magic of Thai cuisine. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and tastes, and don't hesitate to experiment with spice levels to suit your preference. Now go ahead and impress your friends and family with this delicious and easy-to-make dish!