Why You’ll Love this Thai Basil Pork Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, you’ll absolutely love this Thai Basil Pork recipe. It’s one of my go-to meals when I want something quick yet satisfying.
The combination of savory pork, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil creates an irresistible aroma that fills my kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile; I can serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
This dish packs a punch with just the right amount of heat from the chilies, making it a favorite among my family and friends. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients of Thai Basil Pork
When it comes to whipping up something delightful in the kitchen, this Thai Basil Pork recipe is a winner. It’s straightforward and features ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish. Get ready for a burst of aroma and taste that will make your kitchen feel like a bustling Thai street market.
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 – 1 1/4 lb ground pork or ground chicken
- 1 – 1 1/2 cup basil leaves (the fresher, the better)
- 5 – 6 garlic cloves (peeled)
- 3 – 5 whole fresh red chilies (seeded for less heat, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 3 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons canola oil (for frying)
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. Fresh basil is the star here, so be sure to get some that’s bright green and fragrant.
If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil will do in a pinch, though it won’t have quite the same punch. And those chilies? Well, they can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance.
I once went a little overboard with the chilies, thinking I was a spice master, only to find myself regretting my choices later. So, start with fewer, and you can always add more flavor if needed.
How to Make Thai Basil Pork
Making Thai Basil Pork is a delightful adventure in the kitchen that’s as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as stir-frying? Let’s plunge into the cooking process.
First up, you’ll want to get your hands on 5-6 garlic cloves and 3-5 whole fresh red chilies. Toss those into a mortar and pound them up with a pinch of salt until they form a nice, fragrant paste. Don’t be afraid to really go at it; this is where the magic begins. If you’re like me, you might end up with a bit of garlic on your shirt—don’t worry, it’s a badge of honor.
Next, grab a frying pan and heat up 2-3 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Once that oil is shimmering and ready to go, add in your garlic and chili paste. Give it a stir and let those flavors mingle for a minute or so—it’s like they’re having a little dance party in the pan.
After that, it’s time to introduce 1 – 1 1/4 lb of ground pork (or ground chicken if that’s your jam). Break it up with your spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink—this should happen pretty quickly, so keep an eye on it. Overcooking is a rookie move, and nobody wants dry meat in their Thai Basil Pork.
Once your meat is cooked to perfection, it’s time to elevate this dish with flavor. Add in 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, and 3 teaspoons of brown sugar. Give it a good stir to combine everything, and then fold in 1 – 1 1/2 cups of fresh basil leaves.
As they wilt down, they’ll release their aromatic goodness, and trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always adjust the fish sauce and sugar to suit your taste. Taste as you go, because cooking should be as much about personal preference as it’s about following a recipe.
And just like that, you’ve got a delicious dish ready to serve. Who knew making Thai Basil Pork could be such a breeze?
Thai Basil Pork Substitutions & Variations
While cooking Thai Basil Pork is a delightful experience, experimenting with substitutions and variations can take your dish to new heights.
If you’re out of ground pork, try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, use tofu or tempeh instead.
Don’t have fresh Thai basil? Regular basil or even mint can work in a pinch. If you like it spicy, add more chilies or a dash of sriracha.
You can also swap the oyster sauce for soy sauce for a vegan version. Each choice adds a unique flavor, making your dish truly your own!
What to Serve with Thai Basil Pork
After experimenting with substitutions and variations, you might wonder what to pair with your Thai Basil Pork to create a complete meal.
I love serving it over fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up all those delicious flavors. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables, like bok choy or green beans, to balance the dish.
For a revitalizing touch, a simple cucumber salad with lime and chili adds a nice crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with a fried egg on top for extra richness.
Trust me, these combinations elevate your meal to another level!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Thai Basil Pork experience, consider using freshly picked basil for the best flavor.
I also recommend adjusting the level of spice to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds. On the other hand, if you love heat, feel free to add more.
For a richer taste, try incorporating a splash of soy sauce or a touch of lime juice.
Finally, serve your dish immediately for the freshest taste, and enjoy it with jasmine rice to soak up those delicious flavors!