Thai Basil Fried Rice Recipe – Simple Food Dishes
Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and explore one of Thailand's beloved dishes: Thai basil fried rice. I first stumbled upon this dish at a small street vendor in Bangkok while savoring the local scene.
The aroma wafting from the sizzling wok immediately tugged at my senses. To this day, that first taste of Thai basil fried rice remains an unforgettable experience. The fragrant basil, combined with perfectly cooked jasmine rice and a medley of sauces, created a flavor burst that I still crave.
Thai basil fried rice stands as a symbol of the vibrant culture and culinary diversity of Thailand. In my experience, it showcases the balance of spicy, salty, sweet, and herbal flavors. As you delve deeper into this recipe, I assure you: this dish is not just satisfying but has profound roots in Thai tradition and modern home cooking.
What is Thai Basil Fried Rice?
Thai basil fried rice is a flavorful stir-fried dish featuring day-old jasmine rice, the bold punch of Thai basil, and an assortment of savory sauces. Often, it includes additional ingredients like vegetables, shrimp, or chicken, depending on preferences and availability.
What sets this dish apart is the distinct flavor of Thai basil. Unlike sweet basil commonly found in Italian cooking, Thai basil possesses a peppery, almost anise-like flavor that truly elevates the entire dish. It's a favorite among many for good reason: the combination of textures and flavors makes it a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Why You'll Love This Thai Basil Fried Rice
- Simplicity: Beyond its incredible flavors, one of the main draws is how easy it is to whip up. Utilizing day-old rice means you can create a delicious meal in minutes.
- Versatility: This dish offers countless variations. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap shrimp with tofu. Prefer it spicy? Add more chilies. The possibilities are endless.
- Fresh Ingredients: Each bite bursts with freshness. The garlic and chilies provide a kick, while the Thai basil adds an invigorating herbal note.
- Nutrition: The dish is balanced with carbohydrates, protein, and vitamins, especially if combined with vegetables. Plus, it supports mindful eating by encouraging you to savor each bite.
- Community: Cooking Thai basil fried rice can be a communal activity. Whether you're preparing it for your family or friends, it brings people together. Trust me, there’s nothing better than gathering around a table filled with fragrant dishes.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Thai Basil Fried Rice
To craft the perfect plate of Thai basil fried rice, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (can be replaced with light soy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 to 5 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your preference)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce as a substitute)
- 3 to 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium-sized shallot, diced
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black or white pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 12 ounces of extra jumbo shrimp (size 16/20), peeled and deveined
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups day-old chilled jasmine rice
- A handful of holy basil or Thai basil
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
While this list may seem somewhat lengthy, each ingredient plays a vital part in creating the full-bodied flavor of the dish, making it worthwhile.
Directions to Make Thai Basil Fried Rice
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
To start, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. It’s crucial for a stir-fry to have everything on hand since the cooking process moves quickly. Mince the garlic and chilies, dice the shallot, and measure out your sauces. Trust me, having everything at your fingertips will make the cooking experience smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and pour them in, scrambling them gently in the pan until fully cooked. Once done, remove the scrambled eggs and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic, shallots, and chilies. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn. This step infuses a delightful aroma that sets the stage for the fried rice.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Next, toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. If you are opting for chicken or tofu instead, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Once the shrimp are ready, it’s time to add the day-old jasmine rice. Break up any clumps and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors. It’s essential to use day-old rice as it’s drier and yields better texture compared to fresh rice.
Step 6: Incorporate Sauces and Seasonings
Pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, palm sugar, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens. Mix everything well, ensuring every grain of rice is well-coated. Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet and combine everything together.
Step 7: Finish with Basil and Lime
Finally, fold in the Thai basil and lime zest. Remove the pan from heat and let the residual warmth wilt the basil perfectly, while still keeping its vibrant flavor intact.
Notes
Here are some tips to keep in mind for the best results:
- Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky. Day-old rice is dryer and makes for fluffier fried rice.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you're sensitive to heat, start with one chili and gradually add more. You can always spice up your plate later.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to throw in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or peas. They add color and nutrition.
- Authentic Thai Basil: Seek out Thai basil if possible. It's more fragrant than sweet basil and makes a difference in the dish.
- Wok vs. Skillet: If you have a wok, use it. The shape allows for better heat distribution. Still, a good skillet will work just fine.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, here are some quick pointers:
- Cool Down: Allow the rice to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and soggy rice.
- Airtight Containers: Store your fried rice in airtight containers. This helps maintain freshness.
- Refrigeration: Thai basil fried rice keeps well in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water to the pan to keep the rice from drying out.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze portions. Just ensure they’re in freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ways to serve up your Thai basil fried rice:
- Garnish with Lime Wedges: Adding a squeeze of fresh lime elevates the flavors beautifully.
- Top with Fried Egg: A fried egg on top adds creaminess and makes for a hearty meal.
- Serve with Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the meal with a crunchy texture.
- Pair with Thai Chili Sauce: A drizzle of chili sauce adds an extra kick that many crave.
- Accompany with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh cilantro or additional basil on top brings out freshness in every bite.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Thai Basil Fried Rice?
If you're missing an ingredient or looking to change things up, here are some intriguing substitutes:
- Basil: If you can't find Thai basil, try using fresh Italian basil. The flavor profile is different but can still work.
- Shrimp: You can replace shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein base.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari sauce can be used as a gluten-free alternative that still delivers a similar flavor.
- Palm Sugar: Substitute with brown sugar if palm sugar is unavailable. The flavors won’t be identical, but the sweetness will still shine through.
- Oyster Sauce: Use hoisin sauce or soy sauce as a vegetarian substitute.
Conclusion
Thai basil fried rice holds a special place in the journey of discovering flavors through cooking. With its delightful blend of textures and robust flavors, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, tailored easily to suit dietary preferences.
From my own experience sitting on a Bangkok street corner, the joy this dish brings remains unmatched.
I hope you find the process as enjoyable as the end result, and may each bite transport you to the colorful streets of Thailand. So grab your wok, assemble your ingredients, and let's make some magic together!
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Before diving into the delicious world of Thai basil fried rice, it’s worth considering what to serve alongside it to create a memorable meal. Thai cuisine often embraces a balance of flavors and textures, and there are several pairings that complement this dish beautifully.
Light and crispy spring rolls make for a perfect appetizer, offering a delightful contrast to the hearty rice. Their freshness sets the stage for the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For a protein-packed option, grilled chicken is an excellent choice. The subtle char and smoky flavor from the grill enhance the savory notes of the fried rice superbly. To add depth to your meal, consider serving tom yum soup; its sour and spicy profile rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Thai satay skewers drizzled with peanut sauce provide a wonderful nuttiness that pairs decadently with the rice, while spicy pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish. Together, these sides create a harmonious and satisfying meal.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (can be replaced with light soy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1-5 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your preference)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce as a substitute)
- 3-5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium-sized shallot, diced
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black or white pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 12 ounces of extra jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (size 16/20)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups day-old chilled jasmine rice
- A handful of holy basil or Thai basil
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- To start, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. It’s crucial for a stir-fry to have everything on hand since the cooking process moves quickly. Mince the garlic and chilies, dice the shallot, and measure out your sauces. Trust me, having everything at your fingertips will make the cooking experience smoother.
- In a large skillet or wok, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and pour them in, scrambling them gently in the pan until fully cooked. Once done, remove the scrambled eggs and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic, shallots, and chilies. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn. This step infuses a delightful aroma that sets the stage for the fried rice.
- Next, toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. If you are opting for chicken or tofu instead, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Once the shrimp are ready, it’s time to add the day-old jasmine rice. Break up any clumps and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors. It’s essential to use day-old rice as it’s drier and yields better texture compared to fresh rice.
- Pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, palm sugar, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens. Mix everything well, ensuring every grain of rice is well-coated. Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet and combine everything together.
- Finally, fold in the Thai basil and lime zest. Remove the pan from heat and let the residual warmth wilt the basil perfectly, while still keeping its vibrant flavor intact.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 458kcal
- Calories from Fat 251kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 29.4g46%
- Saturated Fat 7.5g38%
- Cholesterol 119mg40%
- Sodium 2161mg91%
- Total Carbohydrate 53g18%
- Dietary Fiber 18g72%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky. Day-old rice is dryer and makes for fluffier fried rice.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you're sensitive to heat, start with one chili and gradually add more. You can always spice up your plate later.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to throw in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or peas. They add color and nutrition.
- Authentic Thai Basil: Seek out Thai basil if possible. It's more fragrant than sweet basil and makes a difference in the dish.
- Wok vs. Skillet: If you have a wok, use it. The shape allows for better heat distribution. Still, a good skillet will work just fine.
I'm Lisa Schneider, a registered dietitian and the creator of Simple Food Dishes. My passion is to help people create easy, nutritious meals that fit seamlessly into their busy lives. Through this blog, I aim to make home cooking fun, accessible, and stress-free for everyone!