Thailand, a country with streets buzzed with an incredible culinary scene – sizzling pans, tempting aromas, and flavors that popped with every bite. I sampled countless dishes, but Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Chicken) quickly became my favorite. It was a whirlwind tour for my taste buds, and Thailand definitely delivered on delicious adventures!

Thai Pad Kra Pao is a popular Thai street food made with minced meat, holy basil, and a fiery chili-garlic sauce. It’s a dish that's incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you're craving a taste of Thailand ( you can also check out Thai Mango Sticky Rice). This Pad Kra Pao recipe has become a staple in my household, and I'm sure it will in yours too.

Now, I'm excited to share my perfected resepi Pad Kra Pao with you. Together, let's unlock the secrets of this iconic dish and savor the bold flavors of Thailand.

Table of Contents

What is Pad Kra Pao?

Pad Kra Pao, also known as Thai Basil Chicken, is a popular Thai street food dish that features a combination of minced meat (commonly chicken, pork, or beef) stir-fried with Thai holy basil and a savory sauce. It is characterized by its bold flavors and fragrant aroma, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Here’s a closer look at this iconic dish:

Key Components of Pad Kra Pao:

Main Ingredient: Meat: Typically made with ground chicken, though it can also be prepared with other meats like pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Herbs: Thai Holy Basil: This aromatic herb, known as “bai kra pao” in Thai, is essential to the dish. It has a distinct flavor that is slightly spicy and peppery, setting Pad Kra Pao apart from other basil dishes.
Flavoring Agents:
- Garlic: Minced garlic is sautéed to create a fragrant base.
- Chilies: Fresh Thai chilies add heat and depth to the dish.
- Sauces: Commonly includes a mix of oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar, which combine to create a savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Pad Kra Pao is often served over steamed rice and is frequently topped with a fried egg, adding richness and texture to the dish.
Preparation: The dish is quick to prepare, typically taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a popular choice for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.

Cultural Significance:

Pad Kra Pao is not just a meal; it’s a reflection of Thailand's vibrant street food culture. Often enjoyed as a quick bite on the go, it showcases the country’s emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and the art of stir-frying. The combination of holy basil with the protein of choice makes it a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s loved by many.

Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Chicken)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 Servings
Author: Chris

Ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken (or pork, beef, tofu)
1 cup Thai holy basil leaves
4 cloves garlic, minced
3-4 Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
1 fried egg per serving (optional, but recommended)

Steps:

Prepare the Ingredients: Mince the garlic and finely chop the Thai chilies. Wash and pick the holy basil leaves.
Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Meat: Add the ground chicken (or your choice of protein) to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it's no longer pink.
Add the Sauces: Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Simmer and Add Basil: Pour in the chicken broth or water. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the liquid reduces slightly. Add the holy basil leaves and stir until they wilt and release their aroma.

Serve: Serve the Pad Kra Pao hot, ideally with a fried egg on top and a side of steamed rice.

Notes:

If you can't find holy basil, substitute it with regular basil or Thai sweet basil.
For a vegetarian version, use tofu and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 280
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Sodium: 820mg
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg

How can I Make a Vegetarian Pad Kra Pao?

Making a vegetarian Pad Kra Pao is easy and delicious! Instead of using meat, you can opt for plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh, along with the signature flavors of Thai holy basil and a savory sauce. This vegetarian Pad Kra Pao is a delightful dish that captures the essence of the original while being completely plant-based. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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