Pad Ka Pao

about Pad Ka Pao, a popular Thai dish that can be found in many Thai restaurants in the USA.

Pad Ka Pao, also known as Pad Kra Pao, is a spicy stir-fry dish made with holy basil, chilies, garlic, and your choice of protein (usually chicken, beef, or pork). The name "Pad Ka Pao" literally translates to "holy basil stir-fry" in Thai.

The dish is made by stir-frying holy basil leaves, chilies, and garlic in oil until fragrant, then adding the protein of your choice and stir-frying until it's cooked through. The dish is then seasoned with fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and tamarind paste, and served over a bed of rice.

Here are some key ingredients that make up Pad Ka Pao:

1. Holy Basil: Also known as krapow, holy basil is a type of basil that is commonly used in Thai cooking. It has a slightly spicy and slightly sweet flavor and is often used in stir-fries and curries.

2. Chilies: Thai chilies, or prik kee nu, are small, green, and spicy. They add heat to the dish and are often used in Thai cooking.

3. Garlic: Like in many other stir-fries, garlic is an important ingredient in Pad Ka Pao. It adds a pungent flavor and aroma to the dish.

4. Protein: Chicken, beef, or pork are common proteins used in Pad Ka Pao. The protein is usually sliced into thin strips and stir-fried with the holy basil, chilies, and garlic.

5. Fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and tamarind paste: These ingredients are used to season the dish and give it a unique flavor. Fish sauce add a salty umami flavor, while soy sauce adds a rich, savory flavor. Sugar balances the dish's acidity, and tamarind paste adds a slightly sweet and sour taste.

6. Rice: Pad Ka Pao is typically served over a bed of rice, which helps to soak up the flavorful sauce.

To make Pad Ka Pao at home, you can start by preparing the holy basil, chilies, and garlic. Then, heat some oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat and add the holy basil, chilies, and garlic. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the protein of your choice and stir-fry until it's cooked through.

Next, add the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and tamarind paste, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. Serve the Pad Ka Pao over a bed of rice and enjoy!

In the USA, you can find Pad Ka Pao on the menu at many Thai restaurants. Some popular chain restaurants that offer Pad Ka Pao include Thai Basil, P.F. Chang's, and Pei Wei. If you're looking to try a more authentic Pad Ka Pao, you might consider visiting a family-owned Thai restaurant in your local area.

Overall, Pad Ka Pao is a flavorful and spicy Thai dish that is popular among those who enjoy bold and aromatic flavors. With its mix of holy basil, chilies, garlic, and your choice of protein, it's a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in Thai cuisine.