Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can add 1-2 minced Thai bird's eye chilies along with the garlic and ginger for more heat.
DINNER
Spicy Thai Basil Beef & Green Bean Stir-Fry
Bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with this quick and satisfying stir-fry. Tender slices of beef and crisp-tender green beans are wok-tossed in a savory, aromatic sauce, generously infused with fresh Thai basil for an irresistible weeknight meal.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
02
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
03
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp.
05
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir well to coat everything. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
06
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves until they wilt, about 30 seconds.
About This Recipe
Bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with this quick and satisfying stir-fry. Tender slices of beef and crisp-tender green beans are wok-tossed in a savory, aromatic sauce, generously infused with fresh Thai basil for an irresistible weeknight meal.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For an extra kick, add 1-2 minced Thai bird's eye chilies along with the garlic and ginger. Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the beef to achieve a good sear and prevent steaming.
Easy Substitutions
You can substitute beef sirloin with flank steak or ground beef. If Thai basil is unavailable, regular sweet basil can be used, though the flavor will be slightly different. Broccoli or bell peppers can be used instead of green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Thai Basil Beef with Green Beans 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 delicious Thai Basil Beef with Green Beans over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal. It also pairs well with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad.
Common Mistakes
Overcrowding the pan: This lowers the temperature and steams the beef instead of searing it. Cook the beef in batches if necessary. Overcooking the beef: Beef sirloin cooks quickly; remove it from the pan once browned to prevent it from becoming tough. Overcooking the green beans: They should be tender-crisp, not mushy. Adding basil too early: This can cause the basil to lose its distinct flavor and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Thai basil and regular basil?
Thai basil has a more anise-like, slightly spicy flavor compared to the sweeter, peppery taste of regular sweet basil.
Can I prepare the beef ahead of time?
You can slice the beef and prepare the sauce up to a day in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a great stir-fry is high heat and quick cooking. Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking, as the process moves very fast. Slicing the beef thinly against the grain ensures tenderness. The fresh Thai basil is added at the very end to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma, which can diminish with prolonged cooking.
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