Easy Thai Holy Basil Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao)

Course: Entree

Cuisine: Thai

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 30

Servings: servings

Calories: 466kcal

Author: Marvellina

This quick and flavorful Thai holy basil stir fry (Pad Kra Pao) features ground pork, garlic, chilies, and fresh basil. It's ready in under 30 minutes!

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US Customary - Metric

Ingredients

6 cloves garlic minced
½ small purple onion or 3 shallots
5 Thai bird’s eye chilies Adjust to taste
2 Tbsp oil plus more for frying eggs
450 g lean ground pork read my post below on details on substitutions
2 Tbsp fish sauce Plus more to taste
1 tsp sugar
2 cups fresh holy basil leaves
4 eggs to make fried eggs

Instructions

Prepare the extra-crispy fried eggs

Don't crowd the pan if making multiple eggs—fry them one at a time for the best result
Use a small pan: A 6–8 inch skillet works best. It helps contain the oil and encourages even crisping.
Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan generously (about 1/4 inch deep). Heat over medium-high until it’s shimmering and just starting to smoke. The oil should be hot enough that the egg bubbles up immediately when added.
Crack the egg into a small bowl: This makes it easier to drop the egg in all at once.
Gently slide the egg into the hot oil. It should puff and sizzle immediately. Tilt the pan slightly towards you so the oil is pooling on the side and spoon hot oil over the top of the egg to cook the whites, avoiding the yolk, for about 30-45 seconds until the egg white is puffy
Fry until the edges are deeply golden and lacy, and the yolk is still jiggly (or to your preferred doneness).
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the egg to a paper towel–lined plate. Repeat with the next egg

Prep the Aromatics

Mince garlic, slice onion or shallots, and chop or crush the chilies. You can also use a mortar and pestle to crush them

Stir-Fry the Base

Preheat a skillet or wok with oil over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the garlic, onion, and chilies until fragrant (about 30 seconds to 1 minute).

Cook the Meat

Add ground pork (or meat of your choice). Break it up and cook until no longer pink and slightly browned—about 4–5 minutes.

Season

Add fish sauce and sugar. Stir well. Taste and adjust with more fish sauce if needed.

Add Basil

Turn off the heat and stir in the holy basil.
Let the residual heat wilt the leaves without overcooking them.

Serve

Serve immediately over hot jasmine rice. Top with a crispy fried egg for the most authentic experience.

Nutrition