Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry)

Experience the vibrant and spicy flavors of Thai street food with Pad Krapow Moo Saap, a quick and satisfying stir-fry featuring minced pork, aromatic holy basil, and a savory-spicy sauce. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a flavorful lunch, this dish captures the essence of Thai cuisine in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 cup fresh holy basil leaves
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
• Fried egg (optional), for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Aromatics

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilies, stir-frying until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

2. Cook the Pork

   Add the ground pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the pork is no longer pink and begins to brown slightly.

3. Add the Sauces

   Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly, allowing the pork to absorb the flavors and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the Basil

   Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh holy basil leaves. Toss quickly until the basil wilts and releases its aroma.

5. Serve

   Spoon the stir-fried pork over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Top with a fried egg if desired for an authentic Thai street food experience.

Serving

Enjoy Pad Krapow Moo Saap hot and spicy, paired with fresh cucumber slices or a simple Thai-style salad. This dish is a perfect balance of heat, savory umami, and fragrant herbs, offering a true taste of Thailand at home.