Thai Basil Fried Rice

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Why Make This Recipe

Thai Basil Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines the fragrant aroma of fresh basil with the hearty goodness of fried rice. It’s a favorite in many homes and restaurants because of its simple preparation and vibrant flavors. With a combination of chicken and colorful mixed vegetables, this meal provides a balanced plate that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress your friends, this recipe is a perfect choice. Plus, it allows you to customize the heat level and ingredients based on your preferences, making it a versatile option for any palate.

How to Make Thai Basil Fried Rice

Making Thai Basil Fried Rice is easy and requires just a few steps. You don’t need to be an expert cook to whip this up; even beginners can create this delicious meal in no time. Follow the directions below to enjoy a hearty portion of this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cup chicken, diced
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chili flakes or fresh chilies for heat

Directions:

Heat the oil: Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste.
Cook the chicken: Next, add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
Add vegetables: Toss in your mixed vegetables. Stir-fry them until they are tender-crisp, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should remain colorful and somewhat crunchy.
Incorporate rice: Once your vegetables are ready, add the cooked jasmine rice. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Toss everything together to combine the flavors, ensuring that the rice gets coated evenly with the sauces.
Add fresh basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the basil wilts slightly and infuses the dish with its beautiful aroma.
Season: Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes or add fresh chilies. Mix everything well.
Serve hot: Serve your Thai Basil Fried Rice hot. For a nice touch, you can garnish it with fresh basil, sliced chilies, or even a fried egg on top.

How to Serve Thai Basil Fried Rice

Thai Basil Fried Rice can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. If it’s your main dish, consider pairing it with a light soup, such as a clear vegetable soup or tom yum for an extra burst of flavor. You can also serve it alongside other Thai dishes to create a delightful spread.

To serve, simply scoop the fried rice onto plates or bowls, and garnish it according to your taste. A fried egg on top can add richness, making the dish even more enjoyable. Don’t forget to offer extra chili sauce or fresh chilies on the side for those who like it a little spicier!

How to Store Thai Basil Fried Rice

If you have leftovers, no problem! Storing Thai Basil Fried Rice is simple. Allow the fried rice to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stove. If the rice seems a bit dry after refrigeration, adding a splash of water or a bit of oil while reheating can help restore its moisture and flavor.

Tips to Make Thai Basil Fried Rice

Use day-old rice: If possible, use leftover rice from the day before. Day-old rice has a firmer texture, which helps prevent it from getting mushy when frying.
Control the heat level: If you’re serving this dish to kids or those who prefer milder flavors, skip the chili flakes or fresh chilies. You can also adjust the quantity based on your own heat tolerance.
Prep everything in advance: Chop your vegetables and chicken ahead of time. This way, when you start cooking, you can move quickly from one step to the next, which helps maintain the freshness and crunch of the vegetables.
Customize the proteins: While chicken is a great option, you can also use shrimp, tofu, or even beef based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Experiment with sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of fish sauce or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra layer of flavor.

Variation

If you want to mix things up, there are plenty of variations you can try:

Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh. Use soy sauce or mushroom sauce for a richer flavor without meat.
Seafood Fried Rice: Add shrimp, scallops, or crab meat for a seafood twist. Just remember to cook seafood until it’s opaque to ensure it’s cooked through.
Spicy Basil Fried Rice: If you love spice, throw in some Thai bird’s eye chilies during the cooking process for added heat.
Egg Fried Rice: You can scramble a couple of eggs in the skillet after sautéing the garlic and before adding the chicken. This adds richness and protein.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Just be aware that brown rice may take longer to cook and has a different texture than jasmine rice, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or simply skip it. A little extra soy sauce can also work in a pinch.

3. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, just skip the chicken and use tofu or additional vegetables instead. Ensure that the sauces you use are vegetarian-friendly as well.

By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious Thai Basil Fried Rice that everyone will love. Enjoy the wonderful aromas, colorful ingredients, and rich flavors that make this dish a favorite!