Thai Basil Beef
This Thai Basil Beef recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender beef cooked with aromatic garlic, fresh Thai basil, and a hint of citrus from lime juice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this easy-to-follow recipe brings a taste of Thailand to your home.
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, lime juice, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
- 5
Fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves and chopped green onions, cooking until the basil wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
- 6
Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
- 7
Transfer the Thai Basil Beef to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cook notes
Tips
Use a high smoke-point oil for stir-frying, such as canola or peanut oil.
Ensure the basil is fresh for the best flavor; avoid using dried basil.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture and flavor.
Substitutions
- Use ground turkey or pork in place of ground beef.
- Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
What to Serve With
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Cucumber salad
Common Mistakes
- Not cooking the garlic long enough, which can lead to a raw flavor.
- Overcooking the beef making it tough instead of tender.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or shredded chicken in this recipe.
Is Thai basil necessary for this dish?
While regular basil can be used, Thai basil gives this dish its signature flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Kitchen tools
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Chef knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring spoons
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