What is holy basil and where can I find it?
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is an aromatic herb with a peppery, slightly spicy flavor. It's common in Southeast Asian cuisine. Look for it at Asian grocery stores or specialty farmers' markets.
DINNER
Cambodian Pork & Holy Basil Stir-fry with Green Beans
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cambodia with this quick and satisfying stir-fry. Succulent pork, crisp green beans, and fragrant holy basil are tossed in a savory-sweet sauce, creating an authentic and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well to create the sauce.
02
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03
Add the thinly sliced pork to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, breaking it apart, until it is mostly cooked through and lightly browned.
04
Add the green beans to the skillet and continue to stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
05
Pour the prepared sauce over the pork and green beans. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for 1 minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
06
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the holy basil leaves until they wilt, about 30 seconds. Serve immediately.
About This Recipe
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cambodia with this quick and satisfying stir-fry. Succulent pork, crisp green beans, and fragrant holy basil are tossed in a savory-sweet sauce, creating an authentic and delicious meal perfect for any night of the week.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra spice, add 1-2 minced bird's eye chilies along with the garlic. Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding ingredients to achieve a proper stir-fry texture.
Easy Substitutions
If holy basil is unavailable, regular Thai basil can be used, though the flavor will be slightly different. Chicken or beef can be substituted for pork. Broccoli florets or bell peppers can replace green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stir-fry hot over steamed jasmine rice. A fried egg on top is a popular addition in Cambodia. You can also pair it with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, offer a side of clear broth soup.
Common Mistakes
Overcrowding the pan: This lowers the temperature and steams the ingredients instead of stir-frying them, leading to a soggy texture. Cook in batches if necessary. Overcooking the pork: Pork shoulder can become tough if cooked for too long. Stir-fry just until cooked through. Adding basil too early: Holy basil should be added at the very end to preserve its delicate aroma and prevent it from becoming bitter. Not preparing ingredients in advance: Stir-frying is fast-paced; having everything chopped and measured beforehand is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the pork with firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian fish sauce and oyster sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
As written, it has a mild peppery kick from the holy basil and black pepper. You can increase the spice by adding fresh chilies to taste.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a great stir-fry is high heat and quick cooking. Prepare all your ingredients (mise en place) before you start cooking, as the process moves very fast. This ensures everything cooks evenly and retains its texture. Holy basil, known as 'krapow' in Thai, has a distinct peppery and slightly spicy aroma that sets it apart from sweet basil. While Thai basil is a good substitute, seeking out holy basil will give you the most authentic Cambodian flavor profile for this dish.
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