Discover the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine with this delicious Thai Basil Fried Rice. This dish combines fragrant jasmine rice, fresh Thai basil, and a savory sauce for an irresistible meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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, shrimp, beef)
- 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
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, and mirin. Set aside.
- Cook the Protein:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes (or protein of your choice) and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and Birdseye chiles, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Rice:
- Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir to combine with the onions, garlic, and chiles.
- Incorporate the Sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the Protein and Basil:
- Return the cooked tofu (or other protein) to the skillet. Add the chopped Thai basil leaves and stir until the basil is wilted and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Thai Basil Fried Rice to serving plates. Top with thin strips of English cucumber and lime wedges on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Rice: For the best results, use day-old cooked jasmine rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can result in a mushy texture.
- Protein Options: This recipe is versatile and can be made with chicken, shrimp, beef, or even pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Ensure the oyster sauce is replaced with a vegetarian oyster sauce (made from mushrooms) to keep the dish vegan.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of Birdseye chiles to your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer chiles or remove the seeds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of rice? A: Jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrant and slightly sticky texture. However, you can substitute with long-grain white rice or brown rice if preferred.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this dish? A: Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster and fish sauces are also gluten-free.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
Q: How do I keep the rice from becoming mushy? A: Using day-old rice helps prevent mushiness. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for an hour to dry it out slightly before using.
Thai Basil Fried Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your kitchen. The combination of aromatic basil, spicy chiles, and a savory sauce makes this dish a standout. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and easy preparation of this delightful recipe.
Embrace the flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make Thai Basil Fried Rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner, this dish is versatile, flavorful, and sure to satisfy your cravings for something delicious and aromatic. Enjoy
