Brief Pad Kra Pao Recipe Information:
Origin Country: Thailand
Number of Servings: 2 servings
Number of Calories (per serving): Approximately 350 calories
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Keywords: Thai cuisine, Pad Kra Pao, Chicken basil, stir-fry, spicy
Essential Ingredients:
For the Stir-Fry, sauce and servings:
- 200g chicken breast or pork, thinly sliced or ground
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 bird’s eye chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 cup fresh holy basil leaves (substitute with Thai basil or regular basil if unavailable)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried egg (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Pad Kra Pao:
- Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients – Thinly slice or grind the chicken breast or pork. Mince the garlic and chop the bird’s eye chilies. Prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar in a small bowl.
- Step 2: Stir-Frying the Aromatics – Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped chilies to the hot oil. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Step 3: Cooking the Meat and Vegetables – Add the sliced or ground meat to the wok. Stir-fry until the meat is cooked through and slightly browned. If using, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Step 4: Incorporating the Sauce and Basil – Pour the prepared sauce over the meat and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add the holy basil leaves and stir-fry until they wilt, about 1-2 minutes.
- Step 5: Serving the Dish – Serve the Pad Kra Pao hot over steamed jasmine rice. Top with a fried egg for an authentic Thai touch. Garnish with lime wedges on the side for a hint of zesty freshness.
Tips for Perfecting Pad Kra Pao:
- Spice Control: Adjust the number of chilies according to your spice tolerance. Bird’s eye chilies are very hot, so start with fewer if you prefer a milder dish.
- Meat Variations: Pad Kra Pao can be made with chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Basil Types: Holy basil gives the most authentic flavor, but if unavailable, Thai basil or regular basil can be used as substitutes.
- Serving Suggestion: For a complete meal, serve Pad Kra Pao with a side of clear soup or a simple Thai salad.
- Quick Cooking: Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a quick process.
Savor the Authentic Flavors of Thailand
Pad Kra Pao is a quintessential Thai dish that brings together the vibrant and bold flavors of Thai cuisine in a simple yet incredibly satisfying way. The aromatic garlic and chilies, combined with the unique taste of holy basil and the savory sauces, create a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re looking to recreate the flavors of a Thai street market at home or simply want to enjoy a delicious and quick meal, Pad Kra Pao is an excellent choice. Its versatility allows for various meat or vegetarian options, making it a flexible dish that can cater to different preferences.
Embrace the rich culinary tradition of Thailand with Pad Kra Pao, and let its delightful flavors transport you to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Happy cooking!
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