Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Thai Basil Minced Beef Stir Fry is a fantastic option for a quick dinner, packed with vibrant flavors and textures. It's the perfect blend of sweet, savory, spicy, and fresh, making it a delicious and healthy addition to your weeknight meal rotation. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. Get ready to experience the best recipes for a truly unforgettable Thai feast!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean is preferred for a healthier meal)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Thai basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare all your ingredients beforehand. This will make the cooking process much smoother and faster. Slice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic and chilies, and wash the Thai basil.
Stir-Fry the Beef:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Add Aromatics and Vegetables:
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the minced garlic and chilies and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Create the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and oyster sauce (if using).
Combine and Simmer:
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the wok. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the Thai basil leaves. Cook for just a minute or two until wilted, being careful not to overcook the basil. Serve immediately over a bed of cooked rice.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Thai Basil Minced Beef Stir Fry:
- For a richer flavor, marinate the ground beef in a mixture of soy sauce and a teaspoon of cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the wok or skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the beef browns properly and the vegetables cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more fish sauce, soy sauce, or brown sugar depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a less spicy dish, omit the chilies or use less. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the spice.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the ground beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to control the spiciness. For extra heat, add a few slices of fresh ginger.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a serving of this Thai Basil Minced Beef Stir Fry is likely to provide a good source of protein and several vitamins and minerals. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and portion size. This recipe is a delicious and healthy option as part of a balanced diet.
This quick and easy Thai Basil Minced Beef Stir Fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious, healthy, and flavorful meal that the whole family will enjoy. Enjoy!