This authentic Spicy Thai Basil Beef (Pad Kra Pao) comes together in just 15 minutes! A flavorful stir-fry with ground beef, fresh basil, and a savory-sweet sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Authentic Thai flavors in minutes
- Perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory
- Uses simple ingredients
- Great for meal prep
- Customizable spice level
Ingredients (Serves 2-3):
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken/pork)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-4 Thai chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 fried eggs (optional, for serving)
- Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep Ingredients:
- Mince garlic and chilies
- Dice onion and bell pepper
- Mix sauces in small bowl
- Cook the Stir-Fry:
- Heat oil in wok or large skillet over high heat
- Add garlic and chilies, stir 30 seconds until fragrant
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks (2-3 minutes)
- Add Vegetables:
- Toss in onions and bell peppers
- Stir-fry 2 minutes until slightly softened
- Season:
- Pour in sauce mixture
- Add sugar and stir to combine
- Cook 1 more minute
- Finish with Basil:
- Remove from heat
- Stir in fresh basil leaves until wilted
- Serve:
- Plate over jasmine rice
- Top with fried egg if desired
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 26g
Tips & Variations:
🌶️ For less heat, remove chili seeds or use bell peppers only
🥬 Add extra veggies like green beans or mushrooms
🍗 Substitute with ground chicken or turkey
🌱 Make vegetarian with crumbled tofu or mushrooms
