Pad Basil

about Pad Basil, a popular Thai dish commonly found in restaurants in the USA.

Pad Basil, also known as Pad Kra Pao, is a stir-fry dish made with basil, meat (usually chicken or beef), vegetables, and Thai basil. The dish is popular in Thailand and has gained popularity globally due to its flavorful and savory taste.

Here's a breakdown of the ingredients commonly used in Pad Basil:

1. Protein: Chicken or beef are the most common proteins used in Pad Basil. The meat is usually sliced into thin strips and cooked with the vegetables and basil.

2. Vegetables: A variety of vegetables are used in Pad Basil, including bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and Thai chilies. The vegetables are sliced into bite-sized pieces and stir-fried with the meat and basil.

3. Thai Basil: Thai Basil is the star of the dish. The fresh leaves are added to the stir-fry towards the end of cooking to maintain their flavor and aroma.

4. Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: Soy sauce and oyster sauce are used to marinate the meat and add depth of flavor to the dish. Fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar may also be added to balance the flavors.

5. Rice: Steamed jasmine rice is typically served alongside Pad Basil to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Now that you know the ingredients, here's a simple recipe to make Pad Basil at home:

Ingredients:

Protein (chicken or beef), sliced into thin strips

Thai basil leaves

Bell peppers, sliced

Onions, sliced

Mushrooms, sliced

Thai chilies, sliced

Soy sauce

Oyster sauce

Fish sauce (optional)

Lime juice

Palm sugar

Vegetable oil

Rice (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the sliced meat and cook until browned. Remove from the wok and set aside.

3. Add more oil if needed, then add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the Thai chilies and stir-fry for another minute.

5. Add the cooked meat back into the wok, followed by the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), lime juice, and palm sugar. Stir well to combine.

6. Add the Thai basil leaves and stir-fry for another minute, ensuring the leaves are wilted but still retain their color and aroma.

7. Serve the Pad Basil over steamed jasmine rice.

Remember, the key to a great Pad Basil is to use fresh Thai basil, which can be found in most Asian grocery stores or grown in your own garden. Enjoy!