Thai Basil Fried Rice

why make this recipe

Thai Basil Fried Rice is not only a delicious meal but also a quick and simple dish to prepare. This recipe brings together fragrant jasmine rice, tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and aromatic basil leaves. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Plus, it is a fantastic way to use leftover rice, making it both economical and efficient. With its sweet and savory flavors, this dish will please the whole family and can easily be customized to fit personal tastes.

how to make Thai Basil Fried Rice

Making Thai Basil Fried Rice is straightforward. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this tasty meal in no time. Here’s how you can prepare 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

1. Heat the Oil: Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This will help in cooking the ingredients quickly and thoroughly.

2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

3. Cook the Chicken: Next, toss in the diced chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and no longer pink in the center. This will ensure that the chicken is safely cooked through.

4. Add Vegetables: After the chicken is cooked, add the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry them for a few minutes until they are tender-crisp. This keeps the vegetables vibrant and slightly crunchy.

5. Add Rice and Sauces: Now, it’s time to add the cooked jasmine rice to the pan along with the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Gently mix everything together. Make sure the rice is heated through and all the ingredients are well combined.

6. Stir in Basil: Add the fresh basil leaves to the mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The basil will wilt and release its aromatic flavor into the dish. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and add chili flakes or fresh chilies to give it some heat if desired.

7. Serve: Serve your Thai Basil Fried Rice hot, optionally garnished with extra fresh basil leaves and lime wedges for a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy!

how to serve Thai Basil Fried Rice

Thai Basil Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, serve it as is, garnished with a few extra basil leaves for freshness. You can also add a side of lime wedges, which will enhance the flavors of the dish and add a zesty kick.

If you want to make it more filling, pair the rice with a simple side salad or spring rolls. You can also serve it alongside a favorite Thai curry or soup for a more substantial meal. For those who enjoy extra protein, consider serving it with a fried egg on top, adding an even creamier texture to the fried rice.

how to store Thai Basil Fried Rice

Leftover Thai Basil Fried Rice can be stored easily. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the fried rice. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When stored properly, it can stay in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the frozen rice overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a skillet or microwave until it’s heated through.

tips to make Thai Basil Fried Rice

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Thai Basil Fried Rice:

1. Use Day-Old Rice: If possible, use day-old cooked jasmine rice. Freshly cooked rice can be sticky and clump together. Chilled rice grains separate easily and help create a better texture for fried rice.

2. Customize Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetables according to what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas can be great additions.

3. Adjust Heat: If you like your dish spicy, don’t hesitate to add more chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies. You can even include sliced bell peppers, jalapeños, or other spicy elements to suit your taste.

4. Consider Protein Options: While this recipe uses chicken, you can swap it out with shrimp, pork, tofu, or keep it meatless. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

5. Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key in this dish. Its unique flavor elevates the fried rice. Avoid using dried basil, as it won’t provide the same aromatic quality.

6. Experiment with Sauces: If you want to play around with the flavors, add a splash of fish sauce for extra umami or use a different soy sauce, like dark soy sauce, to add more color and flavor.

variation

Thai Basil Fried Rice is versatile and can easily be adapted. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable sauces to make it plant-based. You can also increase the amount of vegetables for a heartier dish.

• Seafood Fried Rice: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or a mix of your favorite seafood such as squid or scallops.

• Spicy Basil Fried Rice: For a kick, incorporate Thai bird chilies or Sriracha sauce for heat.

• Green Curry Fried Rice: Add a tablespoon of green curry paste when cooking the chicken for a different flavor profile. This will infuse the rice with a rich and spicy taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it may take longer to cook and has a different texture. The cooking time may need adjustment.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Also, ensure that your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and will work just fine in this dish. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the skillet.

4. Is it necessary to use oyster sauce?
While oyster sauce adds a rich depth of flavor, you can skip it if you want. You can replace it with a bit of hoisin sauce for a sweet note or just use extra soy sauce.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked all the way through?
The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside. A meat thermometer can help; it should read 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I reheat the rice? How should I do it?
Yes, you can reheat the rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave. If the rice seems dry, add a small splash of water before reheating.

8. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use another herb like cilantro or mint, or simply omit it. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but will not have the same fresh flavor.

Thai Basil Fried Rice is a delightful dish that is simple to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a gathering, it is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Happy cooking!