Some dishes prove that simple ingredients can create incredible flavors, and Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow Nua) is one of them. This dish brings together tender beef, fragrant garlic, fiery chilies, and fresh Thai basil in a deeply savory sauce that’s both rich and refreshing.
It’s a stir-fry that’s fast, intensely flavorful, and easy to customize. The balance of sweet, salty, and umami-rich elements makes every bite packed with flavor, while the fresh basil adds a fragrant contrast. Paired with steamed rice and topped with a crispy fried egg, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies every craving.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this stir-fry is proof that Thai street food flavors can be recreated at home in under 30 minutes. The key? High heat, fresh ingredients, and the right balance of sauces to build a deep, bold flavor in minutes.
Key Ingredients for the Best Thai Basil Beef
Great stir-fry comes down to choosing the right ingredients and balancing their flavors. Each element plays a role in creating the perfect bite.
- Beef – Thinly sliced flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best. Tender cuts cook quickly while staying juicy. If using tougher cuts, slice against the grain for better texture.
- Garlic & Chilies – The foundation of the dish. Minced garlic and Thai bird’s eye chilies provide an aromatic and spicy kick. Adjust the chilies based on your spice tolerance.
- Thai Basil – The star of the dish. Unlike sweet basil, Thai basil has a slightly peppery, anise-like flavor that enhances the dish’s depth. Always add it at the end for maximum freshness.
- Sauce Blend – A mix of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and fish sauce creates the perfect umami-rich, salty-sweet balance. This combination is what gives the dish its signature depth.
- A Touch of Sugar – A little brown sugar or palm sugar rounds out the flavors. It helps balance the saltiness of the sauces without making the dish sweet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Thai Basil Beef
The process is simple, but the right technique ensures the beef stays juicy and the flavors shine. High heat is key—this dish cooks fast, so have everything prepped and ready to go.
- Prep the Ingredients – Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Mince the garlic and chilies. Wash and dry the Thai basil leaves.
- Make the Sauce – In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Stir well and set aside.
- Sear the Beef – Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add the beef and cook for 1-2 minutes until browned but not overcooked. Remove from the pan.
- Build the Aromatics – In the same pan, add garlic and chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Everything – Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes.
- Finish with Thai Basil – Turn off the heat and fold in the Thai basil leaves. Stir just until wilted.
- Serve Hot – Plate the stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice. Add a crispy fried egg on top for extra richness.
Why This Stir-Fry Works So Well
This dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of high heat, fresh ingredients, and bold seasonings makes it a go-to meal that always impresses.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight cooking.
- Aromatic & Spicy – The garlic and chilies infuse the oil, giving every bite deep, fragrant heat.
- Rich, Savory Sauce – The blend of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and fish sauce creates a deep umami richness.
- Balanced Flavors – A touch of sugar rounds out the saltiness, ensuring the dish is perfectly balanced.
- Perfect Texture – Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly, staying tender while soaking up the sauce.
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Ways to Customize & Make It Your Own
Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry is already packed with flavor, but small tweaks can make it even better suited to your taste.
- Make It Spicier – Use more Thai chilies or add a spoonful of chili garlic sauce.
- Try Different Proteins – Swap beef for ground chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Add Vegetables – Green beans, bell peppers, or baby corn add extra texture and variety.
- Use Different Basil – If Thai basil isn’t available, sweet basil or even fresh mint can work as substitutes.
- Make It Low-Carb – Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of jasmine rice.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Thai Basil Beef
Pairing this dish with the right sides enhances the meal while keeping the focus on the bold flavors of the stir-fry.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – A neutral base that absorbs the rich sauce perfectly.
- Fried Egg – The crispy edges and creamy yolk add richness to the dish.
- Thai Cucumber Salad – A fresh, tangy contrast to the spicy beef.
- Stir-Fried Greens – A simple side of sautéed bok choy or Chinese broccoli balances the meal.
- Spring Rolls – Light and crispy rolls complement the bold flavors without overpowering them.
Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry
Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet For high-heat stir-frying
- Sharp Knife For thinly slicing the beef
- Mixing Bowl For preparing the sauce
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves loosely packed
- 2 cups steamed jasmine rice for serving
- 2 fried eggs for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain and set aside. Mince the garlic, chop the chilies, and wash the Thai basil leaves.
- In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Heat a wok or skillet over high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
- Add the beef and sear for 1-2 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic and chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors.
- Turn off the heat and add the Thai basil leaves. Stir until just wilted.
- Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice. Top with a fried egg if desired.
Notes
- For a milder version, use fewer chilies or substitute with red pepper flakes.
- To make it low-carb, serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated on the stove for best results.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
This tasted like something straight out of a restaurant.
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Yummy