Spicy Thai Ground Meat With Basil

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
A fiery, aromatic stir-fry of ground meat and fresh basil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Spicy Thai Ground Meat With Basil recipe image

Spicy Thai Ground Meat With Basil

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 697.7

Description

This classic Thai dish, known as Pad Krapow, delivers an intense burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of spicy chilies, pungent garlic, and savory fish sauce creates a rich sauce that clings to the tender ground meat. Fresh Thai basil added at the end provides a sweet, anise-like aroma that balances the heat. It is incredibly fast to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Serve it sizzling hot over steamed jasmine rice, optionally topped with a crispy fried egg for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add ground meat and break it up with a spatula, stir-frying for about 45 seconds until it begins to brown.
  3. Add minced garlic and hot pepper, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink, about 2 to 3 minutes total.
  5. Stir in green onions, lime juice, fish sauce, chili paste, and sugar.
  6. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the meat.
  7. Remove the pan from heat and immediately toss in the fresh basil leaves.
  8. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 697.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 44.7g69%
Saturated Fat 11.6g58%
Cholesterol 240.0mg80%
Sodium 201.0mg9%
Total Carbohydrate 7.0g3%
Dietary Fiber 1.3g6%
Sugars 3.2g
Protein 63.8g128%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a spicier kick, use Thai bird's eye chilies and increase the amount of chili paste.

Thai holy basil is traditional for this dish, but sweet basil or Italian basil can be used as a substitute if holy basil is unavailable.

This dish is traditionally served with a fried egg on top. Fry an egg sunny-side up and place it atop the meat before serving.

Adjust the sugar and fish sauce to taste; some prefer a sweeter profile, while others like it saltier and more savory.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain texture.

Keywords: thai, basil, spicy, ground meat, chicken, beef, turkey, stir fry, garlic, chili, fish sauce, pad krapow, quick dinner, asian cuisine, wok, rice, garlic chives
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