Nue Gra Pao: Stir-Fried Beef With Mint
Description
This vibrant Thai dish, known as Nue Gra Pao, features tender strips of flank steak stir-fried in a fiery paste of garlic, onion, and serrano chilies. The heat from the chilies is beautifully balanced by the cooling freshness of mint leaves (or basil) and the savory depth of fish sauce. It is a quick, flavorful meal that packs a punch, perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors. Serve it hot over steamed rice to moderate the spice level. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something exotic yet simple to prepare. The combination of texturesfrom the crisp mint to the tender beefmakes it a memorable addition to your Thai cooking repertoire.Ingredients
Directions
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Slice the flank steak across the grain into strips 1/4 inch thick and 2 to 3 inches long. Set aside.
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Pound or grind the chilies, garlic, and onion to a coarse paste in a mortar and pestle or blender. If using a blender, you may need to add some of the vegetable oil to aid in grinding.
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Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
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Add the chili paste to the hot oil and stir-fry until it is light golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the beef strips to the wok and stir-fry until they are a uniform tan color but still tender. Do not overcook.
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Stir in the fish sauce, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef. Add more water if the sauce becomes too dry.
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Remove from heat and stir in the mint (or basil) leaves. Toss gently to wilt slightly.
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Arrange a single layer of lettuce leaves in a serving bowl or plate. Spoon the beef mixture over the lettuce. Serve immediately with steamed rice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 307.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18.2g28%
- Saturated Fat 7.6g38%
- Cholesterol 93.1mg32%
- Sodium 81.7mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 32.9g66%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
thai, beef, stir-fry, spicy, mint, flank steak, serrano chilies, garlic, fish sauce, quick dinner, asian cuisine, nue gra pao, wok, herbs, basil, rice
