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Infographic for 20-Minute Thai Basil Fried Rice (Pad Krapow). A spicy, savory one-pan meal that's better than takeout. From Flavor Flux.

20-Minute Thai Basil Fried Rice (Pad Krapow)

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This 20-Minute Thai Basil Fried Rice (Pad Krapow) is explosively flavorful, authentic, and easy to make! A quick one-pan meal that’s better than takeout.

  • Total Time: 20
  • Yield: 2-3 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2-10 bird’s eye chilies, finely sliced (adjust to taste)

  • 8 oz ground chicken (or pork/turkey/tofu)

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, day-old and chilled

  • 1 ½ tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tbsp fish sauce

  • 1 tsp soy sauce

  • 1 tsp sugar

  • 2 cups fresh holy basil or Thai basil leaves

  • For serving: fried eggs, sliced cucumber

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Set aside.

  2. Heat the oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering.

  3. Add the garlic and chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Add the ground chicken. Break it up and cook until no longer pink, about 2-3 minutes.

  5. Add the chilled rice and pour the sauce over it. Stir-fry vigorously, breaking up any rice clumps, for 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and well-coated.

  6. Remove the wok from the heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves until just wilted.

  7. Serve immediately, topped with a fried egg and with sliced cucumber on the side.

Notes

  • Day-Old Rice: This is crucial for the best texture! Freshly cooked rice will make your fried rice mushy.

  • Basil: Holy basil (Kaprow) is traditional, but Thai basil is an excellent substitute. Add it off the heat to preserve its flavor and color.

  • Spice Level: Bird’s eye chilies are very spicy. Start with 2-3 and add more if you want more heat. Removing the seeds will also reduce the spice.

  • Vegetarian: Use crumbled firm tofu and vegetarian oyster sauce.

  • Author: Emma Carter
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Diet: Low Fat