Basil Fried Rice is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines fragrant jasmine rice with fresh basil leaves, vegetables, and your choice of protein. This dish is a popular Thai street food that captures the essence of Thai cuisine with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. The key to this dish is the generous use of Thai basil, which adds a unique, slightly spicy, and anise-like flavor that distinguishes it from other fried rice recipes. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, Basil Fried Rice is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a Thai-inspired feast.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
- 1 pound protein of choice (such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu), diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: If you haven’t already, cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions and allow it to cool. For best results, use day-old rice as it will have less moisture and fry better.
- Cook the protein: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the protein and cook until it is fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove from the wok and set aside.
- Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and mixed vegetables, and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked protein back to the wok, along with the cooked jasmine rice. Stir everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice.
- Season the rice: Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
- Add basil and green onions: Remove the wok from heat and gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves and chopped green onions until the basil is wilted.
- Serve: Transfer the basil fried rice to serving plates and garnish with lime wedges.
Enjoy your Basil Fried Rice as a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings a taste of Thailand to your table, perfect for any occasion!
