Embark on a flavorful journey with our Spice Harmony: Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai). This quintessential Thai dish is a perfect symphony of spicy, savory, and aromatic notes, featuring ground chicken stir-fried with fragrant Thai basil, fiery chilies, and a savory sauce. It's a simple yet bold dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine in every bite.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 5g
Ingredients
- Ground Chicken: 500g (1.1 lbs or 17.6 oz)
- Thai Basil Leaves: A large handful
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Thai Chilies: 3, minced
- Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Oyster Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Fish Sauce: 1 tbsp
- Brown Sugar: 1 tsp
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp
- Fried Egg: 4, for serving
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: for serving
Method of Preparation
- Stir-Fry Garlic and Chilies: Heat oil in a wok. Fry garlic and chilies until aromatic.
- Cook Chicken: Add ground chicken. Cook until browned.
- Season: Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar.
- Add Basil: Toss in Thai basil leaves until wilted.
- Serve: Serve over jasmine rice with a fried egg on top.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use high heat for a quick stir-fry to retain the freshness of basil.
- Adjust the chili quantity to your spice preference.
- Ensure the basil is added last to keep its flavor vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
Thai basil is preferred for its unique flavor, but Italian basil can be used in a pinch.
What can I serve with it?
It pairs well with a cucumber salad or a clear soup.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetarian oyster sauce.