Craving a flavorful, authentic Thai dish that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further than this incredibly easy Thai Basil Pork recipe! This vibrant and aromatic stir-fry combines tender pork with fragrant Thai basil, garlic, chilies, and a touch of sweet and savory soy sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. The rich, savory flavors will transport you straight to a bustling Thai street food stall, without the need for a plane ticket.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and requires minimal prep time, ensuring a quick and delicious dinner is always within reach. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe will become a go-to for its ease and incredible taste. Ready to learn how to create this amazing Thai Basil Pork masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Stove
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Ground pork (or chicken/beef/seafood): 8 ounces
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Thai chilies: 5
- Thai fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Dark soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 2 teaspoons
- Thai basil leaves: 2 cups
- Cooking oil: Sufficient for frying
- Eggs: 1-2 (for fried eggs, optional)
- Lime: 1 (sliced, for garnish)
- Jasmine rice: To serve
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Roughly chop the garlic and Thai chilies. Set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together Thai fish sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Set aside.
- Remove Thai basil leaves from their stems. You'll need about two cups.
Step 2. Cook the Pork
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over high heat. Add the chopped garlic and chilies and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the ground meat and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the meat is cooked and browned.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the meat and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds to a minute.
- Add the Thai basil leaves and stir to incorporate. Turn up the heat for a quick wilt.
Step 3. Fry the Egg (Optional)
- (Optional) Fry eggs in plenty of hot oil until almost deep-fried. Season with salt.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the Thai basil pork over rice. Top with a fried egg (if desired), sliced limes, and extra Thai basil.
Read more: Spicy Funky Shrimp with Basil: A Bon Appétit Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of chilies to your preferred spice level.
- You can use pre-ground meat if you don't want to mince it yourself.
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 35g
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 30g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would work well as substitutes for the pork. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients?
Don't worry! You can omit the chilies for less spice, or substitute fish sauce with soy sauce if needed. The key flavors will still shine through.
This Thai Basil Pork recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the perfectly fried egg as the ultimate topping to this quick and easy meal. So go ahead, give it a try and experience the magic of authentic Thai cuisine in your own kitchen!