Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, fast, and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further than this Pad Kra Pao Beef recipe! This classic Thai dish is bursting with aromatic herbs and spices, tender beef, and a delightful kick of chili. It's the perfect quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup holy basil leaves (Thai basil can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Pat the beef slices dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and prevents steaming.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, red onion, and chilies. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add the beef to the wok and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and oyster sauce (if using).
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Pour the sauce over the beef and stir-fry for another minute until it thickens slightly and coats the beef evenly. Stir in the holy basil leaves and cook for another 30 seconds until wilted but still vibrant green.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Pad Kra Pao Beef hot over steamed rice. Garnish with extra chilies (optional) for an added kick!
Cooking Tips for the Best Pad Kra Pao Beef:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures the beef cooks quickly and evenly without becoming tough.
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef will be tough and dry. Aim for a tender, slightly pink center.
- Adjust the chili to your taste: If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer chilies or remove the seeds. For a spicier version, add more chilies or use a spicier variety.
- Fresh holy basil is best: The unique flavor of holy basil is crucial to authentic Pad Kra Pao. If unavailable, Thai basil is a good substitute.
Variations:
- Chicken Pad Kra Pao: Substitute chicken thighs or breasts for the beef.
- Shrimp Pad Kra Pao: Use shrimp instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Pad Kra Pao: Omit the meat and add firm tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, a typical serving offers a good source of protein and essential nutrients. For a precise breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This Pad Kra Pao Beef recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy meals being easy to make. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this flavorful Thai delight!