Thai Basil Beef is a traditional Thai dish made with stir-fried beef, fresh basil leaves, garlic, chilies, and fish sauce. It is typically served over rice or with rice noodles. This dish is known for its bold and savory flavors and is a popular choice for Thai cuisine lovers.
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, thinly sliced beef is first marinated in a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and a dash of sugar, enhancing the meat’s savory profile. In a hot wok or skillet, the marinated beef is then quickly stir-fried with minced garlic and Thai bird’s eye chili peppers, which lend a pleasant level of heat to the dish. The aroma of the sizzling beef, garlic, and chilies fills the air, adding to the anticipation of a delicious meal.
How to make Thai Basil Beef
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cock Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 lb ground beef 90/10
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, divided
- fresh cilantro (optional)
Thai Basil Beef Sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free alternative)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a small bowl combine chili paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar and lime juice until incorporated, set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet set over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon and stirring often, about 6 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper, onion and garlic to the beef and cook until vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour the sauce mixture along with the fresh basil (reserving a fresh few leaves for the top) and continue cooking until basil starts to wilt.
5. Serve over rice topped with fresh basil and fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Note: If using low sodium soy sauce, add ½ tsp salt to ground beef.
