Thai Basil Fried Rice

This flavorful Thai Basil Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines aromatic jasmine rice with fresh Thai basil, spicy Birdseye chiles, and a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!

Thai Basil Fried Rice is a beloved Thai dish known for its fragrant and spicy flavors. This dish is easy to make and can be customized with your preferred protein, such as tofu, chicken, beef, or shrimp. The combination of fresh Thai basil and a savory sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

4 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons fish sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon mirin

For the Rice:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
7 oz tofu cubes or protein of your choice (chicken, beef, shrimp)
1 onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 Birdseye chiles (or to taste), minced
3 cups cooked jasmine rice
3/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

1 English cucumber, cut into thin strips
1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, and mirin. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

Heat Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Cook Tofu or Protein: Add the tofu cubes or your chosen protein to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Cook Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Garlic and Chiles: Add the minced garlic and Birdseye chiles to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Add Rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Stir-fry the rice, breaking up any clumps, until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the rice. Stir well to ensure all the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add Protein and Basil: Return the cooked tofu or protein to the skillet. Add the chopped Thai basil leaves. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and the basil is wilted.
Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the Rice: Transfer the Thai Basil Fried Rice to serving plates.
Add Toppings: Garnish with thin strips of English cucumber and lime wedges on the side.

Cook Notes and Variations

Rice: Use day-old jasmine rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky for frying.
Protein Alternatives: Substitute tofu with chicken, beef, shrimp, or pork based on your preference. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Birdseye chiles based on your heat tolerance. Remove seeds for less heat.
Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the oyster sauce is vegetarian or use a vegetarian substitute.

Thai Basil Fried Rice is a quick and delicious dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. The combination of fragrant jasmine rice, fresh Thai basil, and a savory sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Customize it with your favorite protein and adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

A: Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with brown rice for a healthier option. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Thai Basil Fried Rice?

A: Yes, you can freeze the fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.