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Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry Quick and Flavorful Meal

by on November 30, 2024

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Looking for a simple yet tasty dish? Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry is your answer! This quick meal bursts with flavor and is perfect for busy weeknights. With easy steps and fresh ingredients, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Join me as we dive into the basics, tips, and fun variations to make this stir fry your own. Get ready to stir up something delicious!

- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain - 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed - 1 red bell pepper, julienned - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or another neutral oil) - 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your preferred heat level) - Cooked jasmine rice, for serving You can add a few more items for extra flavor: - Sliced scallions for garnish - Crushed peanuts for crunch - Lime wedges for a zesty kick If you are missing some items, here are a few swaps: - Use flank steak instead of sirloin for a different cut. - If you can't find Thai basil, sweet basil works as a substitute, but the flavor will change. - Swap green beans with snap peas or broccoli florets for variety. - Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish healthier. - If you prefer a vegan option, try tofu in place of beef. These simple changes can help you enjoy this dish even with what you have on hand. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced - 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves - 1 red bell pepper, julienned - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil - 1 teaspoon chili flakes - Cooked jasmine rice Make sure to have a large skillet or wok ready. This helps with even cooking. 1. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into your skillet over high heat. Wait until it shimmers. 2. Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Watch it closely to avoid burning. 3. Cook the Beef: Add the sliced beef in a single layer. Sear it for about 2 minutes. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until it turns brown and is cooked through. 4. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the bell pepper and green beans. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Keep the veggies crisp and colorful. 5. Create the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this mix over the beef and veggies. Stir well to coat everything. 6. Incorporate Basil and Spice: Sprinkle chili flakes into the skillet. Gently add the Thai basil leaves. Stir for another minute until the basil wilts and flavors blend. 7. Serve: Take the skillet off heat. Serve the stir fry hot over jasmine rice. - Prep Time: 10 minutes - Cooking Time: 10 minutes - Total Time: 20 minutes This quick meal is both easy and packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking! - Choose the Right Cut: Use beef sirloin for its tenderness. - Slice Against the Grain: This makes the beef easier to chew. - Keep it Thin: Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. - High Heat is Key: Cook on high heat for a great sear. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed for even cooking. - Wok or Large Skillet: A wok heats evenly and helps with stir-frying. - Sharp Knife: A good knife ensures even slicing of the beef. - Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board for safe slicing. - Spatula: A spatula helps in tossing the ingredients easily. - Measuring Spoons: For accurate measuring of sauces and spices. - Burning Garlic: Watch the garlic closely; it burns fast. - Cooking Too Long: Avoid overcooking the beef; it should be medium rare. - Not Using Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds essential flavor; don’t skip it. - Ignoring the Sauce: Make sure to coat everything evenly for the best taste. - Serving Cold: Serve hot over jasmine rice for the best experience. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest beef and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your stir fry. Fresh Thai basil is essential for that authentic taste. Adjust the Heat: The amount of chili flakes can be tailored to your spice preference. Start with a small amount, taste the dish, and add more if you like it spicier. Perfect the Sear: Make sure your skillet or wok is very hot before adding the beef. This will create a nice sear and keep the meat tender and juicy. Don't Overcook the Veggies: Stir-fry the vegetables just until they are crisp-tender. This will maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the beef for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs work well for a juicy bite. Just slice it thinly like beef and follow the same steps. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Pan-fry the tofu until golden before adding it to the stir fry. Each protein brings a unique flavor and texture. Feel free to mix up the veggies in this dish. Broccoli, snow peas, or carrots can add color and crunch. You can also try mushrooms for an earthy taste. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Using seasonal veggies can also make your stir fry fresh and vibrant. Spice is key in this dish, but you control the heat! If you love spice, add more chili flakes. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili flakes or leave them out. You can also add fresh sliced chilies for a different kick. Adjusting spice lets you create the perfect balance for your taste buds. Store your Thai basil beef stir fry in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It stays fresh for about three days. Always label your container with the date. This helps you track freshness. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat it in 30-second intervals until hot. This keeps the meat tender. You can freeze this stir fry for up to three months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy a quick meal from your freezer! Thai basil has a unique flavor. It tastes slightly sweet and spicy. Regular basil has a milder, sweeter taste. Thai basil has purple stems and small, pointed leaves. You can find it in Asian markets. It works well in stir-fries and soups, adding depth to dishes. Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the beef and vegetables but leave out the basil. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh Thai basil. This keeps the flavor bright and fresh. Serve this stir fry over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. You can also pair it with: - Steamed broccoli - Cucumber salad - Spring rolls These sides add color and texture to your meal. Enjoy your delicious feast! This blog post covered the key ingredients for Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry and how to prep them. You learned essential cooking steps and timing to get it just right. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and how to use different proteins and veggies. Proper storage and reheating methods help you enjoy leftovers. Finally, I answered FAQs to clarify your questions. Remember, cooking can be simple and fun. Use this guide for great meals ahead!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This stir fry can be made in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Thai basil, garlic, and sauces creates a deliciously aromatic dish.
  3. Healthy and Colorful: Packed with vegetables like bell peppers and green beans, it’s both nutritious and visually appealing.
  4. Customizable Heat: You can easily adjust the chili flakes to suit your spice preference, ensuring everyone enjoys it.

Ingredients

List of Key Ingredients

– 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

– 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed

– 1 red bell pepper, julienned

– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon fish sauce

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or another neutral oil)

– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your preferred heat level)

– Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Optional Ingredients

You can add a few more items for extra flavor:

– Sliced scallions for garnish

– Crushed peanuts for crunch

– Lime wedges for a zesty kick

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are missing some items, here are a few swaps:

– Use flank steak instead of sirloin for a different cut.

– If you can’t find Thai basil, sweet basil works as a substitute, but the flavor will change.

– Swap green beans with snap peas or broccoli florets for variety.

– Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish healthier.

– If you prefer a vegan option, try tofu in place of beef.

These simple changes can help you enjoy this dish even with what you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Overview

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:

– 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced

– 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves

– 1 red bell pepper, julienned

– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon fish sauce

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

– 1 teaspoon chili flakes

– Cooked jasmine rice

Make sure to have a large skillet or wok ready. This helps with even cooking.

Detailed Cooking Steps

1. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into your skillet over high heat. Wait until it shimmers.

2. Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Watch it closely to avoid burning.

3. Cook the Beef: Add the sliced beef in a single layer. Sear it for about 2 minutes. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until it turns brown and is cooked through.

4. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the bell pepper and green beans. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Keep the veggies crisp and colorful.

5. Create the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this mix over the beef and veggies. Stir well to coat everything.

6. Incorporate Basil and Spice: Sprinkle chili flakes into the skillet. Gently add the Thai basil leaves. Stir for another minute until the basil wilts and flavors blend.

7. Serve: Take the skillet off heat. Serve the stir fry hot over jasmine rice.

Cooking Time Breakdown

– Prep Time: 10 minutes

– Cooking Time: 10 minutes

– Total Time: 20 minutes

This quick meal is both easy and packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Beef

– Choose the Right Cut: Use beef sirloin for its tenderness.

– Slice Against the Grain: This makes the beef easier to chew.

– Keep it Thin: Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.

– High Heat is Key: Cook on high heat for a great sear.

– Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed for even cooking.

Suggested Cooking Tools

– Wok or Large Skillet: A wok heats evenly and helps with stir-frying.

– Sharp Knife: A good knife ensures even slicing of the beef.

– Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board for safe slicing.

– Spatula: A spatula helps in tossing the ingredients easily.

– Measuring Spoons: For accurate measuring of sauces and spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Burning Garlic: Watch the garlic closely; it burns fast.

– Cooking Too Long: Avoid overcooking the beef; it should be medium rare.

– Not Using Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds essential flavor; don’t skip it.

– Ignoring the Sauce: Make sure to coat everything evenly for the best taste.

– Serving Cold: Serve hot over jasmine rice for the best experience.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest beef and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your stir fry. Fresh Thai basil is essential for that authentic taste.
  2. Adjust the Heat: The amount of chili flakes can be tailored to your spice preference. Start with a small amount, taste the dish, and add more if you like it spicier.
  3. Perfect the Sear: Make sure your skillet or wok is very hot before adding the beef. This will create a nice sear and keep the meat tender and juicy.
  4. Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Stir-fry the vegetables just until they are crisp-tender. This will maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value.

Variations

Alternative Proteins (Chicken, Tofu, etc.)

You can easily swap the beef for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs work well for a juicy bite. Just slice it thinly like beef and follow the same steps. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Pan-fry the tofu until golden before adding it to the stir fry. Each protein brings a unique flavor and texture.

Different Vegetable Options

Feel free to mix up the veggies in this dish. Broccoli, snow peas, or carrots can add color and crunch. You can also try mushrooms for an earthy taste. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Using seasonal veggies can also make your stir fry fresh and vibrant.

Customizing Spice Levels

Spice is key in this dish, but you control the heat! If you love spice, add more chili flakes. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili flakes or leave them out. You can also add fresh sliced chilies for a different kick. Adjusting spice lets you create the perfect balance for your taste buds.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

Store your Thai basil beef stir fry in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It stays fresh for about three days. Always label your container with the date. This helps you track freshness.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat it in 30-second intervals until hot. This keeps the meat tender.

Freezing Guidelines

You can freeze this stir fry for up to three months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy a quick meal from your freezer!

FAQs

What is Thai Basil and how is it different from regular basil?

Thai basil has a unique flavor. It tastes slightly sweet and spicy. Regular basil has a milder, sweeter taste. Thai basil has purple stems and small, pointed leaves. You can find it in Asian markets. It works well in stir-fries and soups, adding depth to dishes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the beef and vegetables but leave out the basil. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh Thai basil. This keeps the flavor bright and fresh.

What can I serve with Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry?

Serve this stir fry over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. You can also pair it with:

– Steamed broccoli

– Cucumber salad

– Spring rolls

These sides add color and texture to your meal. Enjoy your delicious feast!

This blog post covered the key ingredients for Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry and how to prep them. You learned essential cooking steps and timing to get it just right. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and how to use different proteins and veggies. Proper storage and reheating methods help you enjoy leftovers. Finally, I answered FAQs to clarify your questions. Remember, cooking can be simple and fun. Use this guide for great meals ahea

- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain - 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed - 1 red bell pepper, julienned - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or another neutral oil) - 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your preferred heat level) - Cooked jasmine rice, for serving You can add a few more items for extra flavor: - Sliced scallions for garnish - Crushed peanuts for crunch - Lime wedges for a zesty kick If you are missing some items, here are a few swaps: - Use flank steak instead of sirloin for a different cut. - If you can't find Thai basil, sweet basil works as a substitute, but the flavor will change. - Swap green beans with snap peas or broccoli florets for variety. - Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish healthier. - If you prefer a vegan option, try tofu in place of beef. These simple changes can help you enjoy this dish even with what you have on hand. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced - 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves - 1 red bell pepper, julienned - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil - 1 teaspoon chili flakes - Cooked jasmine rice Make sure to have a large skillet or wok ready. This helps with even cooking. 1. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into your skillet over high heat. Wait until it shimmers. 2. Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir for about 30 seconds until it smells great. Watch it closely to avoid burning. 3. Cook the Beef: Add the sliced beef in a single layer. Sear it for about 2 minutes. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until it turns brown and is cooked through. 4. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the bell pepper and green beans. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Keep the veggies crisp and colorful. 5. Create the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this mix over the beef and veggies. Stir well to coat everything. 6. Incorporate Basil and Spice: Sprinkle chili flakes into the skillet. Gently add the Thai basil leaves. Stir for another minute until the basil wilts and flavors blend. 7. Serve: Take the skillet off heat. Serve the stir fry hot over jasmine rice. - Prep Time: 10 minutes - Cooking Time: 10 minutes - Total Time: 20 minutes This quick meal is both easy and packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking! - Choose the Right Cut: Use beef sirloin for its tenderness. - Slice Against the Grain: This makes the beef easier to chew. - Keep it Thin: Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. - High Heat is Key: Cook on high heat for a great sear. - Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed for even cooking. - Wok or Large Skillet: A wok heats evenly and helps with stir-frying. - Sharp Knife: A good knife ensures even slicing of the beef. - Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board for safe slicing. - Spatula: A spatula helps in tossing the ingredients easily. - Measuring Spoons: For accurate measuring of sauces and spices. - Burning Garlic: Watch the garlic closely; it burns fast. - Cooking Too Long: Avoid overcooking the beef; it should be medium rare. - Not Using Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds essential flavor; don’t skip it. - Ignoring the Sauce: Make sure to coat everything evenly for the best taste. - Serving Cold: Serve hot over jasmine rice for the best experience. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest beef and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your stir fry. Fresh Thai basil is essential for that authentic taste. Adjust the Heat: The amount of chili flakes can be tailored to your spice preference. Start with a small amount, taste the dish, and add more if you like it spicier. Perfect the Sear: Make sure your skillet or wok is very hot before adding the beef. This will create a nice sear and keep the meat tender and juicy. Don't Overcook the Veggies: Stir-fry the vegetables just until they are crisp-tender. This will maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the beef for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs work well for a juicy bite. Just slice it thinly like beef and follow the same steps. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Pan-fry the tofu until golden before adding it to the stir fry. Each protein brings a unique flavor and texture. Feel free to mix up the veggies in this dish. Broccoli, snow peas, or carrots can add color and crunch. You can also try mushrooms for an earthy taste. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Using seasonal veggies can also make your stir fry fresh and vibrant. Spice is key in this dish, but you control the heat! If you love spice, add more chili flakes. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili flakes or leave them out. You can also add fresh sliced chilies for a different kick. Adjusting spice lets you create the perfect balance for your taste buds. Store your Thai basil beef stir fry in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It stays fresh for about three days. Always label your container with the date. This helps you track freshness. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Place the stir fry in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat it in 30-second intervals until hot. This keeps the meat tender. You can freeze this stir fry for up to three months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy a quick meal from your freezer! Thai basil has a unique flavor. It tastes slightly sweet and spicy. Regular basil has a milder, sweeter taste. Thai basil has purple stems and small, pointed leaves. You can find it in Asian markets. It works well in stir-fries and soups, adding depth to dishes. Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the beef and vegetables but leave out the basil. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh Thai basil. This keeps the flavor bright and fresh. Serve this stir fry over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. You can also pair it with: - Steamed broccoli - Cucumber salad - Spring rolls These sides add color and texture to your meal. Enjoy your delicious feast! This blog post covered the key ingredients for Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry and how to prep them. You learned essential cooking steps and timing to get it just right. I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and how to use different proteins and veggies. Proper storage and reheating methods help you enjoy leftovers. Finally, I answered FAQs to clarify your questions. Remember, cooking can be simple and fun. Use this guide for great meals ahead!

Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry

A quick and flavorful stir fry featuring tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic Thai basil.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or another neutral oil)
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to your preferred heat level)
  • 1 serving cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until it's shimmering.
  • Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Introduce the thinly sliced beef to the skillet, spreading it out in a single layer. Allow it to sear undisturbed for approximately 2 minutes, then stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  • Once the beef is cooked, toss in the julienned red bell pepper and halved green beans. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the vegetables remain crisp.
  • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this sauce over the beef and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle the chili flakes into the skillet and gently stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves. Allow the basil to wilt slightly in the residual heat, stirring for an additional minute.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and serve the stir fry hot over jasmine rice.

Notes

Serve with extra Thai basil and a sprinkle of chili flakes for garnish.
Keyword beef, quick meal, stir fry, Thai basil

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