This aromatic and flavorful Thai Basil Pork Bowl is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines ground pork with fresh basil, garlic, and a savory sauce. Served over rice or noodles, it’s a quick weeknight dinner that’s bursting with bold Thai flavors.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- For the Thai Basil Pork:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground pork (or chicken or turkey)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies (or 1 regular chili), finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (palm sugar if available)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (or regular basil if unavailable)
- For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice, quinoa, or noodles)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Sliced chili or extra basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the garlic and chopped chilies, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.
- Once the pork is cooked through, add the sliced onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the Sauces:
- Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish the Pork:
- Add the fresh basil leaves and stir until wilted and fragrant. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce if needed.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Spoon the cooked rice or noodles into individual bowls.
- Top with the Thai basil pork mixture.
- Garnish with sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, extra basil, sliced chilies, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Tips
- Protein Swap: Use ground beef, chicken, or tofu as a substitute for pork.
- Make It Spicy: Add more chilies or drizzle with chili oil for extra heat.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for added crunch and flavor.
Enjoy this fragrant and savory Thai Basil Pork Bowl that brings bold flavors and comfort to your table!