Thai Basil Fried Rice

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Why Make This Recipe

Thai Basil Fried Rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow and requires simple ingredients that you may already have at home. The combination of the aromatic Thai basil with savory soy sauce and oyster sauce gives this dish a unique and vibrant taste. Not only is it tasty, but it also offers a great way to use leftover rice and various vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Thai Basil Fried Rice is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and delicious. It’s a one-pan meal that allows you to customize the ingredients based on what you have available. You can easily turn this dish into a vegetarian option by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables or using tofu. This recipe also works well as a meal prep option since it can be made in advance and enjoyed later.

How to Make Thai Basil Fried Rice

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

Heat the vegetable oil: Start by pouring 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil into a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute.
Add minced garlic: Once the oil is hot, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as garlic can become bitter when overcooked.
Cook the chicken: After the garlic has become fragrant, add 1 cup of diced chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken, stirring frequently, until it is no longer pink in the center. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Toss in mixed vegetables: Now it’s time to add 1 cup of mixed vegetables (you can use carrots, peas, bell peppers, or any of your favorites). Stir-fry these vegetables for a few minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Add the cooked rice and sauces: Grab 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice and add it to the skillet. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. The soy sauce is essential for flavor, while the oyster sauce adds a touch of sweetness. Gently toss everything together.
Add basil and season: Add 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves to the mixture. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes or fresh chilies for heat.
Serve hot: Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! Enjoy your Thai Basil Fried Rice hot, straight from the skillet.

How to Serve Thai Basil Fried Rice

Thai Basil Fried Rice can be served as a standalone dish or as a side to accompany other meals. If you’re feeling fancy, you can plate your fried rice with a sprig of fresh basil on top or a few sliced chilies for color. You can also add a fried egg on top for extra richness—a common touch in many parts of Southeast Asia.

Pair this dish with some fresh lime wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lime juice over the rice before eating adds a refreshing zesty element that complements the flavors beautifully. If you enjoy heat, serve it with additional chili flakes or a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

How to Store Thai Basil Fried Rice

Leftover Thai Basil Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal taste and quality. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. When reheating on the stove, you may want to add a splash of water or oil to prevent the rice from drying out.

If you made more than you can eat, you can also freeze Thai Basil Fried Rice for longer storage. Place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Be sure to label the container with the date. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the microwave or stovetop.

Tips to Make Thai Basil Fried Rice

Use day-old rice: For the best texture, use rice that has been cooked and cooled, preferably overnight. Day-old rice is drier and separates better, reducing the chances of mushy fried rice.
Choose the right vegetables: While this recipe uses mixed vegetables, feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have available. Other great options include green beans, zucchini, or corn.
Control the heat level: If you like spice, add chili flakes or fresh chilies when you add the garlic. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance.
Experiment with protein alternatives: You can swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time according to the protein you use.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you are making a larger batch, consider cooking it in batches to ensure even cooking and to prevent steaming the rice.

Variation

While Thai Basil Fried Rice is delicious as is, there are many ways to vary the recipe. Here are some ideas:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and replace it with more vegetables or tofu. You can also add scrambled eggs for protein.
Seafood Fried Rice: Substitute chicken with shrimp or any other fish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as seafood cooks quickly.
Spicy Basil Fried Rice: Increase the amount of chilies you add or serve with a side of chili sauce for those who love more heat.
Curry Fried Rice: Add a teaspoon of curry powder when you add the sauces for an interesting twist on the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, and it may have a different texture compared to jasmine rice.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari sauce instead of soy sauce, and be sure the oyster sauce you use is also gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make Thai Basil Fried Rice in advance. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
What is the best way to reheat fried rice?
You can reheat fried rice in a microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little water or oil to help keep the rice moist.
What other herbs can I use instead of basil?
If you cannot find Thai basil, you can use regular basil, or even cilantro or mint to add a different flavor profile to your fried rice.

In conclusion, Thai Basil Fried Rice is a fantastic dish that is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thailand right at home. Bring this dish to your next family meal or dinner party, and find out how everyone loves it!