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–+ servings
Pad Kra Pao

Pad Kra Pao: A Quick & Flavorful Thai Comfort Dish

Experience the vibrant flavors of Pad Kra Pao, Thailand's beloved stir-fry featuring holy basil and customizable spice levels.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stir-Fry
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil for a tropical twist
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 2-3 pieces Thai bird's eye chilies chopped; adjust for spice level
  • 300 grams ground chicken or alternative meat like pork, beef, or tofu
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce mushroom sauce for vegetarian
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce omit for vegetarian
  • 1 teaspoon sugar optional
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 cup Thai holy basil leaves or Thai sweet basil
  • 1 small onion sliced, optional
For Serving
  • 4 cups cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for low-carb
  • 4 pieces fried eggs optional

Equipment

  • pan or wok

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes. Add 5 minced garlic cloves and 2-3 chopped Thai bird's eye chilies, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add 300 grams of ground chicken (or your choice of protein) to the pan. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, breaking the meat into smaller pieces until fully browned.
  3. Pour in 1 tablespoon each of oyster sauce, soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix thoroughly, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth or water, stir well, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. If using, add a sliced small onion into the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until translucent.
  6. Turn off the heat and gently fold in 1 cup of Thai holy basil leaves. Stir quickly to wilt the basil.
  7. Serve the Pad Kra Pao immediately over cooked jasmine rice and top with a fried egg if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Control the heat by adjusting the number of chilies used. Fresh Thai holy basil is essential for authentic flavor.

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