How to make Thai Basil Pork and the recipes of Thai Basil Pork

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Thai Basil Pork (Pad Gkaprow Mu)

A classic Thai dish featuring ground pork and aromatic basil, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Time: 20 minutes
Makes: 4 to 6 servings as part of a multicourse family-style meal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 5 Asian shallots or 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced (1/3 cup)
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground pork
  • 6 red Thai chilies, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups packed fresh holy basil or Thai basil leaves
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients:
  • Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat for 1 minute. Add vegetable oil and heat until it shimmers.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sliced shallots (or onion). Cook until garlic is lightly golden and fragrant, about 15 to 30 seconds.
  1. Cook the Pork:
  • Increase heat to high. Add ground pork to the wok, breaking up clumps with the edge of a spatula. Stir and cook until pork just loses its pink color, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  1. Add Seasonings:
  • Reduce heat to medium. Stir in sliced Thai chilies, oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to coat the pork evenly.
  1. Incorporate Basil:
  • Add fresh holy basil (or Thai basil) leaves to the wok. Cook until basil is wilted and pork is cooked through, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  1. Finish and Serve:
  • Transfer the Thai basil pork to a serving dish. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper if desired.
  • Serve hot with freshly steamed rice.

Notes:

  • Variations: Substitute ground chicken, turkey, shrimp, scallops, mussels, or firm-flesh fish like salmon or halibut for a different twist.
  • Adjust Heat: Increase or decrease the number of Thai chilies according to your spice preference.
  • Serve: Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of a multicourse meal with rice and other Thai dishes.

This Thai basil pork recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine at home.

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