Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice

Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice, also known as “Pad Kra Pao,” is a classic Thai dish celebrated for its vibrant flavors and simplicity. This dish combines tender slices of beef with aromatic garlic, chili, and fresh Thai basil, all stir-fried in a savory sauce that perfectly balances salty, sweet, and spicy notes. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it becomes a satisfying, wholesome meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

This recipe captures the essence of authentic Thai street food while being easy enough to prepare at home. The stir-fry cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor or complexity. The aromatic basil leaves infuse the beef with a fresh, slightly peppery taste that elevates the dish from simple to extraordinary.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an explosion of flavors in every bite. The combination of tender, caramelized beef, garlicky stir-fried aromatics, and the unmistakable freshness of Thai basil creates a perfect balance that is both comforting and exciting.

It’s also a quick and versatile dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Within 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality Thai meal on your table. The layering of flavors — the heat from the chilies, the savoriness of soy sauce, the subtle sweetness, and the fresh punch of basil — makes it incredibly satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it showcases the magic of Thai cooking in a simple stir-fry. It’s bold, fragrant, and perfectly balanced, offering a taste experience that’s both authentic and approachable.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just enjoy aromatic stir-fries, Thai Basil Beef is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s comforting, filling, and works well for both family dinners and special occasions. The jasmine rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, making every mouthful a delight.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2–3 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or palm sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Rice

• 2 cups jasmine rice
• 4 cups water

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Cook the jasmine rice until fluffy.
2. Prepare the sauce by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Stir-fry garlic, chilies, and vegetables.
4. Add beef and cook until browned.
5. Pour in the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
6. Add basil leaves and stir-fry briefly.
7. Serve hot over jasmine rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice

1. Rinse 2 cups of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Combine rice with 4 cups of water in a pot and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Aromatics and Vegetables

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sliced chilies, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add sliced onion and red bell pepper, stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

1. Increase heat to high and add the sliced beef to the skillet.
2. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

1. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables.
2. Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly and cook for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Basil

1. Remove the skillet from heat.
2. Stir in fresh Thai basil leaves and gently toss until wilted.

Step 7: Serve

1. Plate the stir-fry over freshly cooked jasmine rice.
2. Optionally, garnish with extra basil leaves or sliced chilies.

How to Serve

Serve Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry immediately while hot over jasmine rice. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a light cucumber salad. For extra heat, add more fresh sliced chilies at the table.

It’s best enjoyed fresh but can also be packed for lunch boxes as a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Recipe Tips

• Slice Beef Thinly: Cutting against the grain ensures tender, easy-to-chew slices.
• High Heat Stir-Fry: Cooking quickly on high heat prevents the beef from overcooking and keeps vegetables crisp.
• Adjust Spiciness: Increase or reduce chilies according to your heat preference.
• Fresh Basil: Use Thai basil for the authentic flavor; sweet basil can be a substitute if unavailable.
• Pre-Mix Sauce: Make the sauce in advance for faster cooking during stir-frying.

Variations

1. Chicken Basil Stir-Fry: Substitute beef with chicken breast or thighs.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with firm tofu or tempeh.
3. Spicy Garlic Basil Beef: Add extra garlic and chili paste to intensify the flavor.
4. Noodle Option: Serve the stir-fry over rice noodles instead of jasmine rice for a noodle bowl twist.
5. Mixed Vegetable Version: Include broccoli, baby corn, or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat.
• Freezing: The stir-fry can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best to freeze without rice to prevent sogginess. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Knife and cutting board
• Rice cooker or pot for jasmine rice
• Mixing bowl for the sauce
• Spatula or tongs

Conclusion

Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings the taste of Thailand into your kitchen. With tender beef, aromatic garlic and basil, and a perfectly balanced sauce, it’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even meal prep.

Its vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability make it a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Thai cuisine or wants to explore bold, aromatic stir-fry dishes. Once you master this recipe, it will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.