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Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Stir-Fry) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 120 reviews

Pad Kra Pao is a classic Thai stir-fry dish featuring ground pork cooked with aromatic garlic, spicy chili, and fragrant Thai basil leaves. This flavorful dish is quick to prepare and delivers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and herbal notes, making it a beloved street food in Thailand and a delicious meal for any day.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 250g ground pork
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2–3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth)
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional, authentic flavor)
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: Mince the garlic and finely chop the Thai chilies. Set aside for quick access during cooking.
  2. Heat the pan: Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, swirling to coat the surface evenly.
  3. Stir-fry pork: Add the ground pork to the hot pan. Break it up with your spatula and cook until it starts to brown and is nearly cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add garlic and chili: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Continue stirring and frying for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
  5. Season the meat: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce if using. Mix well so the meat is evenly coated with the sauces and cook for another minute.
  6. Add Thai basil: Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil perfectly without overcooking it.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer the Pad Kra Pao to a serving plate and enjoy with steamed jasmine rice and a fried egg if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust chili quantity to control the spiciness level.
  • Fresh Thai basil is essential for authentic flavor; substitute with holy basil if available.
  • Add a fried egg on top for a traditional street food experience.
  • Use a wok for best results, but a large skillet works well too.
  • Oyster and fish sauces are optional but provide authentic umami depth.

Keywords: Pad Kra Pao, Thai basil pork, Thai stir fry, ground pork recipe, spicy Thai food

Find it online: https://recipeswithria.com/pad-kra-pao-thai-basil-stir-fry-recipe/