Pad Kra Pao Recipe | Pork And Basil Stir Fry

If you're a fan of bold Thai flavors with a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh basil, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest and most delicious Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Stir Fry). In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why You'll Love This Spectacular Stir Fry

• Quick & Easy. Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
• Packed with Flavor. A perfect blend of spicy chilies, savory garlic, and aromatic Thai basil.
• Customizable. Adjust the heat level or protein to your preference.
• Authentic Taste. Enjoy a dish that transports you straight to Thailand with every bite.

With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish bursting with authentic Thai flavors. Whether you're cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe for Pad Kra Pao is sure to become a household favorite.

What Does Pad Kra Pao Taste Like?

Pad Kra Pao, also known as Thai Basil Stir Fry, is one of Thailand’s most beloved street food dishes. Typically made with minced pork, chicken, or beef, it features a spicy and savory sauce with fragrant Thai basil.

Served over steamed rice and often topped with a fried egg, it’s a flavorful, filling meal that’s hard to resist.

Can I Use Regular Basil In Pad Kra Pao?

While Thai basil is the traditional choice for Pad Kra Pao, you can use regular basil if Thai basil is unavailable. However, the flavor will differ slightly. Thai basil has a more distinctive, peppery, and slightly anise-like taste, while regular basil has a milder, sweeter profile.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Ground Pork or Chicken- Both work well, but ground pork is traditional for that juicy, tender bite.
• Thai Basil- Adds a distinctive peppery aroma that is key to the dish. Use fresh Thai basil if possible.
• Bird's Eye Chilies- These bring the heat! Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• Garlic- Freshly minced garlic gives a bold, savory flavor.
• Onion- For an earthy and naturally sweet touch.
• Oyster Sauce- Provides a deep umami flavor that complements the dish.
• Soy Sauce- Adds saltiness and umami.
• Fish Sauce- For that essential punch of savory depth.
• Sugar- Balances out the savory and spicy elements.
• Vegetable Oil- For stir-frying the ingredients.
• Eggs- A crispy fried egg on top is optional, but highly recommended for a more authentic experience.

How To Make Pad Kra Pao

1. Prepare the Ingredients. Start by mincing your garlic and chopping the bird’s eye chilies. If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds.
2. Cook the Meat. In a hot pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil and add the minced garlic, onion, and chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant, then add your ground pork or chicken. Cook the meat until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add Sauces. Once the meat is cooked, pour in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir well to coat the meat with the savory sauce.
4. Add Thai Basil. Toss in the Thai basil leaves and stir for a few seconds until they wilt. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking the basil.
5. Fry the Egg. In a separate pan, fry your eggs until the edges are crispy and the yolk is still soft. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of richness.
6. Serve. Serve the stir-fried meat and basil over steamed jasmine rice and top with the fried egg.

Tips And Tricks

Making Pad Kra Pao is quick and straightforward, but a few tips will help you achieve the best possible flavors:

• Use Fresh Ingredients. Fresh garlic, chilies, and Thai basil make a big difference in flavor. Avoid using dried or wilted herbs.
• Adjust the Heat. If you're sensitive to spice, reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds. For spice lovers, feel free to add more!
• Don’t Overcook the Basil. Thai basil is delicate and should be added at the very end of cooking. Just a few seconds of heat is enough to release its aroma without losing flavor.

Variations

While traditional Pad Kra Pao is made with ground pork, you can experiment with other proteins or ingredients to suit your taste:

• Chicken- Substitute ground chicken for a leaner option that’s just as flavorful.
• Beef- For a heartier version, use ground beef or thinly sliced steak.
• Vegetarian- Swap the meat for tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version. Use soy sauce and skip the fish sauce for a fully vegetarian dish.
• Spicier Version- Add a splash of Sriracha or more bird’s eye chilies if you crave extra heat.

What To Eat With Pad Kra Pao

Pad Kra Pao is a complete meal in itself when served with rice and a fried egg. However, if you’re looking to add a little more to your plate, here are some great side dishes that pair beautifully:

• Thai Cucumber Salad- A refreshing side that helps cool down the heat from the chilies.
• Spring Rolls- Crispy spring rolls with a tangy dipping sauce are a delicious appetizer.
• Mango Sticky Rice- End your meal with this classic Thai dessert made with sweet, juicy mango and coconut sticky rice.

How Long Does It Last?

Pad Kra Pao is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to maintain the best texture.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! You can freeze Pad Kra Pao in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop for a quick and flavorful meal anytime.

More Perfect Pork Recipes

• Pork Stew
• Crispy Pork Belly
• Keto Pork Stir Fry
• Instant Pot Carnitas
• Pork Bulgogi

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Don't forget to check out my other Keto cookbooks.

Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats, and Easy keto in 30 minutes.