Description: A quick and intensely flavorful Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry, known as Pad Gra Prow, capturing the essence of Thai street food. This dish features succulent ground beef stir-fried with a vibrant blend of garlic, chilies, and fragrant Thai basil, creating a symphony of savory, spicy, and aromatic notes. Ready in minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that delivers a powerful punch of authentic Thai flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Thai red chilies or 1 red chili + 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 small shallot or 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for an authentic Thai flavor)
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves (or regular basil), loosely packed
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- Optional: 1 fried egg per serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients – Mince the garlic and thinly slice the chilies and shallot (or onion). Measure out the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and water. Have the Thai basil leaves washed and ready. This step ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Rice – If you haven’t already, cook the jasmine rice according to package directions or your preferred method. The aroma of freshly cooked rice is a wonderful complement to the stir-fry.
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat the Wok – Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. It’s crucial to use high heat to achieve the characteristic wok hei (breath of the wok), which imparts a slightly smoky flavor to the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics – Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The chilies will release their fiery aroma, filling your kitchen with an enticing scent.
Step 3: Brown the Beef – Add the ground beef to the wok and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Ensure that the beef is evenly cooked, with no pink remaining. This step is essential for both flavor and food safety.
Step 4: Add the Shallots – Toss in the sliced shallots (or onion) and cook for about 1 minute, or until softened and slightly translucent. The shallots add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the stir-fry.
Step 5: Create the Sauce – Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and water to the wok. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and coat the beef and vegetables evenly. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.
Step 6: Incorporate the Basil – Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai basil leaves until they are just wilted. Be careful not to overcook the basil, as it can lose its vibrant flavor and color. The basil will release its fragrant aroma, transforming the dish into a true Thai culinary experience.
Step 7: Serve Immediately – Serve the Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry immediately over hot jasmine rice. For a classic Thai touch, top each serving with a crispy fried egg.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry, or Pad Gra Prow, is a winner for many reasons. Its incredible speed and ease of preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The flavor profile is undeniably addictive. The combination of savory ground beef, pungent garlic and chilies, and the unmistakable aroma of Thai basil creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and exciting. The balance of sweet, salty, and spicy notes is a hallmark of authentic Thai cuisine.
Furthermore, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or fewer chilies. Feel free to substitute the ground beef with chicken, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5 (Very Easy)
- Flavor: 5/5 (Excellent)
- Time Commitment: 5/5 (Very Quick)
- Overall: 5/5 (Highly Recommended)
Serving Suggestions:
- Fried Egg: Top each serving with a crispy fried egg for the classic Thai experience. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- Cucumber Slices: Serve with sliced cucumber on the side to provide a cool and refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the stir-fry.
- Lime Wedges: Offer lime wedges for squeezing over the dish, adding a burst of acidity and brightness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Accompany the stir-fry with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a more balanced meal.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: Provide a small bowl of chili garlic sauce for those who want an extra kick of heat.
Tips:
- Use High Heat: Maintaining high heat is crucial for achieving the authentic wok hei flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Basil: Add the basil at the very end and stir it in until just wilted to preserve its flavor and color.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Customize the amount of chilies to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, chilies, and basil are essential for the best flavor.
- Prepare Ingredients in Advance: Having all the ingredients prepped and measured out will streamline the cooking process.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (estimated, per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry (Pad Gra Prow) is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that will transport you to the streets of Thailand. With its bold flavors, aromatic basil, and simple preparation, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a fantastic way to experience the magic of Thai cuisine in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
A: Yes, you can use regular basil if you don’t have Thai basil on hand. However, Thai basil has a slightly anise-like flavor that is more authentic to the dish.
Q2: Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even tofu would work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: How can I make this dish less spicy?
A: Reduce the amount of chilies or remove the seeds before slicing them. You can also use a milder chili pepper like a jalapeño.
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the stir-fry is best served immediately, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Q5: What is fish sauce, and can I omit it?
A: Fish sauce is a fermented fish sauce that adds a unique umami flavor to Thai dishes. It’s optional but highly recommended for an authentic taste. If you prefer to omit it, you can add a pinch of salt or a splash of soy sauce to compensate.
