Thai Basil Beef, known as Pad Krapow Nua in Thailand, is a mouthwatering stir-fry dish packed with savory, spicy, and aromatic flavors. This dish is a staple of Thai street food, loved for its bold combination of tender beef, fragrant basil, garlic, chilies, and umami-rich sauce. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick dinner idea or a food enthusiast exploring authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Basil Beef is a must-try!
In this post, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients and cooking method to FAQs and pro tips for making the best Thai Basil Beef at home.
What Makes Thai Basil Beef Special?
Thai Basil Beef is more than just a stir-fry—it’s an explosion of sweet, savory, spicy, and herbal flavors in every bite. Here’s what makes it stand out:
✔️ Fast & Easy: It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
✔️ Authentic Thai Flavors: The unique taste comes from Thai basil, fresh chilies, and a well-balanced sauce.
✔️ Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or make it healthier with lean beef and more veggies.
Key Ingredients for Thai Basil Beef
To make an authentic Thai Basil Beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Protein
- Beef: Flank steak, sirloin, or ground beef (for a quicker version)
Aromatics & Herbs
- Garlic & Thai Chilies: The heart of the spice and aroma
- Shallots: Adds a subtle sweetness
- Thai Basil (Holy Basil): The signature herbal note (substitute with sweet basil if needed)
Sauce Mix
- Oyster Sauce: Deepens the umami flavor
- Soy Sauce & Dark Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and color
- Fish Sauce: A must for authentic Thai taste
- Sugar: Balances the heat and saltiness
How to Make Thai Basil Beef (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Mince garlic and Thai chilies.
- Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a wok over high heat.
- Add garlic and chilies, stir-frying for 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Add beef slices and cook until browned.
- Pour in the sauce mix and toss to coat evenly.
Step 4: Add Thai Basil
- Turn off the heat and toss in fresh Thai basil leaves.
- Stir until the basil slightly wilts (don’t overcook).
Step 5: Serve Hot
- Serve over jasmine rice with a crispy fried egg on top (a classic Thai way!).
FAQs
What type of basil is best for this dish?
Thai Holy Basil (Bai Krapow) is ideal because of its spicy, peppery taste. If unavailable, sweet basil works, but the flavor will be milder.
Can I use ground beef instead of sliced beef?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a quicker and equally delicious option. Just be mindful of the fat content—lean ground beef works best.
How spicy is Thai Basil Beef?
It depends on how many Thai chilies you use. For mild heat, use 1-2; for extra heat, use 4-5. You can also remove the seeds to reduce spiciness.
What sides go well with Thai Basil Beef?
This dish is best with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice. A crispy fried egg on top adds an extra layer of texture and richness.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Swap beef for tofu, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
Final Thoughts
Thai Basil Beef is a perfect balance of flavors that makes it a go-to for Thai food lovers. Whether you enjoy bold and spicy dishes or need a quick and satisfying meal, this dish delivers every time. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can adjust the spice, protein, or veggies to your liking.
Next time you’re craving Thai food, skip the takeout and make homemade Thai Basil Beef—your taste buds will thank you!
👉 Have you tried making Thai Basil Beef? Share your experience in the comments below!
