Craving an authentic taste of Thailand? Look no further than Pad Krapow, a fiery and flavorful stir-fry that's a staple in Thai street food stalls. This iconic dish, featuring tender beef, fragrant holy basil, and a punchy garlic-chili sauce, is surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients; our recipe delivers the same bold, satisfying flavors you'd find on the bustling streets of Bangkok, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. The intense aroma alone is enough to transport you to the vibrant heart of Thailand.
Get ready to experience the sizzling symphony of tastes that is Pad Krapow! This ultimate guide will walk you through each step, ensuring your Pad Krapow is perfectly cooked and bursting with authentic Thai flavors. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the perfect stir-fry technique, we'll equip you with everything you need to create this delicious and addictive dish. Let's get cooking!
Tools Needed
- Wok or large frying pan
Ingredients
- Beef
- Garlic
- Chilies
- Thai Basil
- Soy Sauce
- Fish Sauce
- Oyster Sauce
- Sugar
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Sizzle the Aromatics
- Prepare the beef by slicing it thinly. Mince the garlic and chilies.
- Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. (This is where the 'sizzling' comes in!)
- Add the garlic and chilies to the hot oil and stir-fry until fragrant. (Be careful not to burn them!)
Step 2. Cook the Beef and Build the Flavor
- Add the beef to the wok and stir-fry until browned. Make sure to break up any clumps of beef.
- Add soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir-fry until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3. Incorporate Thai Basil
- Add the fresh Thai basil leaves and stir-fry for a minute or two, until wilted but still vibrant green. Do not overcook the basil!
Step 4. Serve Immediately
- Serve immediately. Enjoy the fiery deliciousness!
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chilies to your preferred spice level.
- Use high-quality Thai basil for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of basil?
While Thai basil is best for its unique licorice flavor, you can substitute with sweet basil in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. What if I don't have fish sauce?
Soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but it won't give the same umami depth. A small amount of Worcestershire sauce can help replicate some of the missing flavor.
So there you have it – your very own sizzling plate of authentic Thai Basil Beef! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying spice of this easy-to-make street food classic. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound Pad Krapow expertise!