Thai Beef Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao)
A vibrant and flavorful Thai dish featuring tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound Ground Beef Choose high-quality beef for the best flavor and texture.
Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil A neutral oil ideal for stir-frying.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds essential flavor.
- 2-3 pieces Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies, finely chopped Adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers, sliced Use a mix of colors for visual appeal.
- 1 cup Green Beans, trimmed and cut Adds a fresh, crisp texture.
Sauces
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Enhances the umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce Adds depth and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce A key ingredient in Thai cuisine.
- 1 tablespoon Sugar Balances heat and saltiness.
Herbs
- 1 cup Fresh Thai Basil Leaves Provides a fresh, peppery flavor.
For Serving
- Cooked as needed Jasmine Rice Perfect accompaniment to soak up the stir-fry.
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables, mince the garlic, slice the bell peppers, and trim the green beans.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add garlic and chilies: Stir-fry minced garlic and chopped chilies for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Stir in bell peppers and green beans, stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes until tender but crisp.
- Incorporate sauces: Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add basil: Remove from heat and fold in fresh Thai basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve hot over jasmine rice, garnished with extra basil or sliced chilies if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize with different proteins or vegetables. Adjust spice levels to your preference.