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Spicy Thai Basil Beef Flavorful and Quick Recipe

by on July 23, 2025

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If you’re craving a quick and flavorful meal, Spicy Thai Basil Beef is the answer! In just a few steps, you can whip up a delicious dish packed with fresh basil, zesty chilies, and savory sauces. This recipe offers a perfect blend of heat and heartiness that delights your taste buds. Ready to spice up your dinner? Read on for an easy recipe that will impress your family or guests!

- 1 lb (450g) ground beef - 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves - 2-3 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste) - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, sliced The main ingredients are simple yet bold. Ground beef gives the dish its heartiness. Fresh Thai basil adds a fragrant touch. Thai red chilies bring the heat. Garlic adds a strong flavor. The bell pepper adds crunch and sweetness. - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 teaspoon sugar - Salt and pepper to taste The sauces make this dish shine. Soy sauce adds umami. Oyster sauce brings richness. Fish sauce gives depth. Sugar balances the flavors. Salt and pepper enhance everything. Together, they create a harmonious mix. - Cooked jasmine rice - Additional garnishes (lime, basil leaves) Serve this dish hot over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. For garnish, add lime for brightness. Extra basil leaves add color and aroma. These simple touches make your meal look great and taste even better. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. 2. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 2-3 sliced Thai red chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. 3. Increase the heat to high and add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. 1. Add 1 sliced bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender yet still crisp. 2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Pour this mixture over the beef and bell pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly. 1. Add 1 cup of fresh Thai basil leaves to the pan. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts. 2. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. 3. Serve the spicy Thai basil beef hot over cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors! To get the best browning on your beef, use a hot pan. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Then, add the garlic and chilies, stirring for just a few seconds. This builds flavor. Next, increase the heat before adding the beef. Stir and break it apart. Cook until it’s fully browned. This step is key for great texture and taste. If you want less heat, use fewer chilies or remove the seeds. Balancing sauces is important. Soy sauce adds saltiness, while oyster sauce adds depth. Fish sauce gives umami. Start with equal parts, then adjust to taste. A pinch of sugar helps balance flavors too. For extra zing, try adding lime juice or a splash of vinegar. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a nice touch. For a beautiful plate, serve the beef in a large bowl. Add a few extra basil leaves on top. This makes it look fresh. You can also add a slice of lime on the side. The lime adds color and a pop of flavor. Try arranging jasmine rice in a small mound next to the beef. This creates a nice contrast and makes your dish stand out. Pro Tips Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of Thai red chilies or remove the seeds before slicing. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Thai basil is key to authentic flavor; avoid dried herbs for the best results. Cook Rice Ahead: Prepare jasmine rice in advance to save time; it can be reheated easily before serving. Garnish for Presentation: A few extra basil leaves and a lime wedge on the side not only enhance the look but add fresh flavor when squeezed over the dish. {{image_2}} You can easily switch up the proteins in this dish. Ground beef is popular, but chicken or tofu works great too. Both options soak up the sauce well. For a veggie boost, swap out the bell pepper for broccoli or snap peas. This adds different flavors and colors to your meal. If you like it milder, use less Thai red chili. You can remove the seeds to tone down the heat. For more spice, try adding sliced bird’s eye chilies. These small peppers pack a punch. Remember, start with a little, then taste as you go. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce. This way, you keep the same taste without the gluten. If you want a vegetarian or vegan dish, replace the beef with tofu and skip the fish sauce. You can use soy sauce or a vegan alternative instead. Enjoy the same great flavors while meeting your diet needs. To keep your spicy Thai basil beef fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge as soon as it cools. This dish lasts about three to four days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. When you're ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them safely. You can use the microwave or a pan on the stove. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir between. This helps keep the beef tender. If using a pan, add a splash of water to maintain moisture. This keeps the dish flavorful. To freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Divide it into portions and put them in freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as you can. Label the bags with the date. When you want to eat it, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. For a quick method, you can use cold water to thaw. Avoid microwaving from frozen, as it can cook unevenly. Use the thawed dish within three months for the best taste. Spicy Thai Basil Beef is a vibrant stir-fry dish. It features ground beef, fresh Thai basil, and bold spices. The dish hails from Thailand, where it is a popular street food. The combination of flavors makes it both savory and spicy. The use of Thai red chilies gives it a kick, while the basil adds a fragrant touch. Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. Chicken, turkey, or tofu are great alternatives. They will still absorb the tasty sauces well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. Ground chicken or turkey will cook faster than beef. Tofu works well too; just make sure to press it to remove excess water. This dish goes well with several sides. Here are a few ideas: - Jasmine rice - Steamed vegetables - Spring rolls - Thai cucumber salad These sides add balance to the meal and enhance the flavors. The heat can vary based on how many chilies you use. Typically, it has a nice kick from 2-3 Thai red chilies. If you prefer less heat, start with one chili and taste as you go. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for milder heat. Adjust it to fit your taste buds! Spicy Thai Basil Beef is a delicious dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. We covered the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for the best results. You can also explore various adaptations to suit your taste. By storing leftovers correctly, you ensure great meals for days to come. This dish provides a fun culinary experience, whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or share it with friends. Embrace the flavors of Thailand right in your home kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: This recipe combines the heat of Thai chilies with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a dish that excites the palate.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet feels special enough for entertaining.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients can be easily adjusted based on what you have at home, making it adaptable to various tastes.
  4. Healthy Balance: Packed with protein from the beef and nutrients from the bell peppers and basil, it’s a wholesome meal served over rice.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Spicy Thai Basil Beef

– 1 lb (450g) ground beef

– 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

– 2-3 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper, sliced

The main ingredients are simple yet bold. Ground beef gives the dish its heartiness. Fresh Thai basil adds a fragrant touch. Thai red chilies bring the heat. Garlic adds a strong flavor. The bell pepper adds crunch and sweetness.

Sauces and Seasoning

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

– 1 tablespoon fish sauce

– 1 teaspoon sugar

– Salt and pepper to taste

The sauces make this dish shine. Soy sauce adds umami. Oyster sauce brings richness. Fish sauce gives depth. Sugar balances the flavors. Salt and pepper enhance everything. Together, they create a harmonious mix.

Serving Suggestions

– Cooked jasmine rice

– Additional garnishes (lime, basil leaves)

Serve this dish hot over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. For garnish, add lime for brightness. Extra basil leaves add color and aroma. These simple touches make your meal look great and taste even better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 2-3 sliced Thai red chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Increase the heat to high and add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks.

Cooking Steps

1. Add 1 sliced bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender yet still crisp.

2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Pour this mixture over the beef and bell pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Finishing Touches

1. Add 1 cup of fresh Thai basil leaves to the pan. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts.

2. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

3. Serve the spicy Thai basil beef hot over cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To get the best browning on your beef, use a hot pan. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Then, add the garlic and chilies, stirring for just a few seconds. This builds flavor. Next, increase the heat before adding the beef. Stir and break it apart. Cook until it’s fully browned. This step is key for great texture and taste. If you want less heat, use fewer chilies or remove the seeds.

Flavor Enhancement

Balancing sauces is important. Soy sauce adds saltiness, while oyster sauce adds depth. Fish sauce gives umami. Start with equal parts, then adjust to taste. A pinch of sugar helps balance flavors too. For extra zing, try adding lime juice or a splash of vinegar. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a nice touch.

Presentation Suggestions

For a beautiful plate, serve the beef in a large bowl. Add a few extra basil leaves on top. This makes it look fresh. You can also add a slice of lime on the side. The lime adds color and a pop of flavor. Try arranging jasmine rice in a small mound next to the beef. This creates a nice contrast and makes your dish stand out.

Pro Tips

  1. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of Thai red chilies or remove the seeds before slicing.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Thai basil is key to authentic flavor; avoid dried herbs for the best results.
  3. Cook Rice Ahead: Prepare jasmine rice in advance to save time; it can be reheated easily before serving.
  4. Garnish for Presentation: A few extra basil leaves and a lime wedge on the side not only enhance the look but add fresh flavor when squeezed over the dish.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily switch up the proteins in this dish. Ground beef is popular, but chicken or tofu works great too. Both options soak up the sauce well. For a veggie boost, swap out the bell pepper for broccoli or snap peas. This adds different flavors and colors to your meal.

Heat Level Adjustments

If you like it milder, use less Thai red chili. You can remove the seeds to tone down the heat. For more spice, try adding sliced bird’s eye chilies. These small peppers pack a punch. Remember, start with a little, then taste as you go.

Diet Adaptations

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce. This way, you keep the same taste without the gluten. If you want a vegetarian or vegan dish, replace the beef with tofu and skip the fish sauce. You can use soy sauce or a vegan alternative instead. Enjoy the same great flavors while meeting your diet needs.

Storage Info

Leftover Storage

To keep your spicy Thai basil beef fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge as soon as it cools. This dish lasts about three to four days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Reheating Suggestions

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them safely. You can use the microwave or a pan on the stove. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir between. This helps keep the beef tender. If using a pan, add a splash of water to maintain moisture. This keeps the dish flavorful.

Freezing Information

To freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Divide it into portions and put them in freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as you can. Label the bags with the date. When you want to eat it, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. For a quick method, you can use cold water to thaw. Avoid microwaving from frozen, as it can cook unevenly. Use the thawed dish within three months for the best taste.

FAQs

What is Spicy Thai Basil Beef?

Spicy Thai Basil Beef is a vibrant stir-fry dish. It features ground beef, fresh Thai basil, and bold spices. The dish hails from Thailand, where it is a popular street food. The combination of flavors makes it both savory and spicy. The use of Thai red chilies gives it a kick, while the basil adds a fragrant touch.

Can I make Spicy Thai Basil Beef without beef?

Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. Chicken, turkey, or tofu are great alternatives. They will still absorb the tasty sauces well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. Ground chicken or turkey will cook faster than beef. Tofu works well too; just make sure to press it to remove excess water.

What dishes pair well with Spicy Thai Basil Beef?

This dish goes well with several sides. Here are a few ideas:

– Jasmine rice

– Steamed vegetables

– Spring rolls

– Thai cucumber salad

These sides add balance to the meal and enhance the flavors.

How spicy is Spicy Thai Basil Beef?

The heat can vary based on how many chilies you use. Typically, it has a nice kick from 2-3 Thai red chilies. If you prefer less heat, start with one chili and taste as you go. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for milder heat. Adjust it to fit your taste buds!

Spicy Thai Basil Beef is a delicious dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. We covered the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for the best results. You can also explore various adaptations to suit your taste. By storing leftovers correctly, you ensure great meals for days to come. This dish provides a fun culinary experience, whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or share it with friends. Embrace the flavors of Thailand right in your home kitche

- 1 lb (450g) ground beef - 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves - 2-3 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste) - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, sliced The main ingredients are simple yet bold. Ground beef gives the dish its heartiness. Fresh Thai basil adds a fragrant touch. Thai red chilies bring the heat. Garlic adds a strong flavor. The bell pepper adds crunch and sweetness. - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 teaspoon sugar - Salt and pepper to taste The sauces make this dish shine. Soy sauce adds umami. Oyster sauce brings richness. Fish sauce gives depth. Sugar balances the flavors. Salt and pepper enhance everything. Together, they create a harmonious mix. - Cooked jasmine rice - Additional garnishes (lime, basil leaves) Serve this dish hot over jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce well. For garnish, add lime for brightness. Extra basil leaves add color and aroma. These simple touches make your meal look great and taste even better. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. 2. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 2-3 sliced Thai red chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. 3. Increase the heat to high and add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. 1. Add 1 sliced bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender yet still crisp. 2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Pour this mixture over the beef and bell pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly. 1. Add 1 cup of fresh Thai basil leaves to the pan. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts. 2. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. 3. Serve the spicy Thai basil beef hot over cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors! To get the best browning on your beef, use a hot pan. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Then, add the garlic and chilies, stirring for just a few seconds. This builds flavor. Next, increase the heat before adding the beef. Stir and break it apart. Cook until it’s fully browned. This step is key for great texture and taste. If you want less heat, use fewer chilies or remove the seeds. Balancing sauces is important. Soy sauce adds saltiness, while oyster sauce adds depth. Fish sauce gives umami. Start with equal parts, then adjust to taste. A pinch of sugar helps balance flavors too. For extra zing, try adding lime juice or a splash of vinegar. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a nice touch. For a beautiful plate, serve the beef in a large bowl. Add a few extra basil leaves on top. This makes it look fresh. You can also add a slice of lime on the side. The lime adds color and a pop of flavor. Try arranging jasmine rice in a small mound next to the beef. This creates a nice contrast and makes your dish stand out. Pro Tips Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of Thai red chilies or remove the seeds before slicing. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Thai basil is key to authentic flavor; avoid dried herbs for the best results. Cook Rice Ahead: Prepare jasmine rice in advance to save time; it can be reheated easily before serving. Garnish for Presentation: A few extra basil leaves and a lime wedge on the side not only enhance the look but add fresh flavor when squeezed over the dish. {{image_2}} You can easily switch up the proteins in this dish. Ground beef is popular, but chicken or tofu works great too. Both options soak up the sauce well. For a veggie boost, swap out the bell pepper for broccoli or snap peas. This adds different flavors and colors to your meal. If you like it milder, use less Thai red chili. You can remove the seeds to tone down the heat. For more spice, try adding sliced bird’s eye chilies. These small peppers pack a punch. Remember, start with a little, then taste as you go. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce. This way, you keep the same taste without the gluten. If you want a vegetarian or vegan dish, replace the beef with tofu and skip the fish sauce. You can use soy sauce or a vegan alternative instead. Enjoy the same great flavors while meeting your diet needs. To keep your spicy Thai basil beef fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge as soon as it cools. This dish lasts about three to four days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. When you're ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them safely. You can use the microwave or a pan on the stove. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir between. This helps keep the beef tender. If using a pan, add a splash of water to maintain moisture. This keeps the dish flavorful. To freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Divide it into portions and put them in freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as you can. Label the bags with the date. When you want to eat it, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. For a quick method, you can use cold water to thaw. Avoid microwaving from frozen, as it can cook unevenly. Use the thawed dish within three months for the best taste. Spicy Thai Basil Beef is a vibrant stir-fry dish. It features ground beef, fresh Thai basil, and bold spices. The dish hails from Thailand, where it is a popular street food. The combination of flavors makes it both savory and spicy. The use of Thai red chilies gives it a kick, while the basil adds a fragrant touch. Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. Chicken, turkey, or tofu are great alternatives. They will still absorb the tasty sauces well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. Ground chicken or turkey will cook faster than beef. Tofu works well too; just make sure to press it to remove excess water. This dish goes well with several sides. Here are a few ideas: - Jasmine rice - Steamed vegetables - Spring rolls - Thai cucumber salad These sides add balance to the meal and enhance the flavors. The heat can vary based on how many chilies you use. Typically, it has a nice kick from 2-3 Thai red chilies. If you prefer less heat, start with one chili and taste as you go. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for milder heat. Adjust it to fit your taste buds! Spicy Thai Basil Beef is a delicious dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. We covered the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for the best results. You can also explore various adaptations to suit your taste. By storing leftovers correctly, you ensure great meals for days to come. This dish provides a fun culinary experience, whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or share it with friends. Embrace the flavors of Thailand right in your home kitchen!

Spicy Thai Basil Beef

A flavorful stir-fry featuring ground beef, fresh Thai basil, and a spicy kick from Thai red chilies.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 pieces Thai red chilies, sliced
  • 1 piece bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for serving cooked jasmine rice

Instructions
 

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sliced Thai red chilies to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Increase the heat to high and add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  • Add the sliced bell pepper to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pepper is tender yet still crisp.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Pour this mixture over the beef and pepper, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
  • Add the fresh Thai basil leaves to the pan, tossing everything together for about 1-2 minutes until the basil is wilted.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for personal preference.
  • Serve the spicy Thai basil beef hot over cooked jasmine rice.

Notes

Serve with jasmine rice and garnish with extra basil leaves and lime.
Keyword beef, spicy, stir fry, Thai basil

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