Ingredients Summary:
- Ground chicken, pork, or beef: 500g
- Thai bird’s eye chilies: 2-3, chopped (adjust to taste)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 small, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Thai basil leaves: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fried egg: For serving (optional)
- Steamed jasmine rice: For serving
Instructions Overview:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped chilies, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground meat to the pan and stir-fry until cooked through and browned.
- Add Sauces: Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Mix well and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add Basil: Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai basil leaves until wilted.
- Serve: Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, and top with a fried egg if desired.
For detailed instructions, visit Serious Eats – Pad Krapow Recipe.
Pad Krapow (Thai Basil Stir-Fry) is one of the most popular street food dishes in Thailand. This recipe features tender chicken (or pork), stir-fried with Thai basil, garlic, and fiery Thai chilies for a bold and aromatic meal. The combination of savory soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce enhances the rich flavors, while fresh Thai basil adds an earthy and sweet balance to the heat. Served with steamed rice and a fried egg on top, Pad Krapow is an easy, quick stir-fry that brings authentic Thai street food right to your kitchen.