Amazing Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao
If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you’ve likely heard of the iconic dish known as Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao. This delicious stir-fry, often referred to simply as Pad Krapow, is celebrated for its vibrant flavours, fragrant herbs, and addictive spice. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins of Pad Kra Pao, its cultural significance, and why it deserves a place in your home cooking repertoire.
The Allure of Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao
Pad Kra Pao is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that showcases the essence of Thai cooking. At its core, this dish features minced meat—commonly pork or chicken—stir-fried with garlic, bird’s eye chillies, and the fragrant Thai holy basil. The combination of heat from the chillies and the aromatic sweetness of basil creates a tantalising flavour profile that has made Pad Kra Pao a beloved dish both in Thailand and around the world.
Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao (Basil Optional)
6
servings7
minutes40
minutes760
kcalSuper easy, tasty and spicy Pad Kra Pao - Great for lunch or dinners!
Ingredients
2 tbsp chilli oil (or virgin oil)
200g Diced Onion
200g Diced Peppers
2 heaped tsp Easy Garlic
2 heaped tsp Easy Chilli
1 tsp Tumeric
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
30ml Light Soy Sauce
1 tbsp chilli puree (or tomato puree)
1kg Chicken
2 Oxo Chicken Stocks
1 Large Pepper (cut into strips)
10 Diced Finger Chilli's
200g Chopped Green Beans
Basil (Optional)
250g cooked basmati rice (84g uncooked) (serves 2)
2 Eggs (Fried)
Directions
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of chilli oil or extra virgin olive oil. Add the diced onion, diced peppers, easy garlic, and easy chilli.
- Once browned, add the turmeric, smoked paprika, light soy sauce, and chilli puree (or tomato puree). Fry for an additional 2 minutes until slightly charred. Add a splash of water or oil if it dries out.
- Add 1kg of chicken mince, breaking it up and stirring. Once slightly browned, add the chicken stock directly or mix it with 50ml of boiled water and add.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Cut green beans into 1cm chunks, slice the red pepper into thin strips, and dice the finger chillies. Add to the pan and stir thoroughly. Cook for approximately another 5 minutes. The original recipe uses basil but this is optional.
- Prepare basmati rice. Cook fresh according to the instructions on the rice packaging, or use microwavable rice.
- In a separate pan, heat 3 tablespoons of oil. Fry the eggs (1 per person) on high heat with the lid on until the edges are crisp.
- Serve either side by side or with the rice on the bottom, followed by the meat and egg on top.
- Enjoy the meal, and store any leftover meat in Tupperware for lunch the next day, or freeze for future use.
A Brief History of Pad Kra Pao
Pad Kra Pao has its roots in the bustling streets of Thailand, where it is served as a quick and satisfying meal for locals. The dish’s origins can be traced back to the Thai royal cuisine, but it has since evolved into a popular street food item. Vendors whip up this dish in mere minutes, making it a go-to option for busy Thais looking for a delicious meal on the go.
The name “Pad Kra Pao” comes from the key ingredient, Thai holy basil, which is called “krapow” in Thai. This basil variety has a distinctive flavour that sets Pad Kra Pao apart from other stir-fry dishes, and it’s essential for achieving the authentic taste that fans of this dish adore. You’ll notice, it isn’t a huge part of this recipe and I have found it to taste better without.
Why You Should Make Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao
1. Quick and Convenient
One of the biggest draws of Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao is its ease of preparation. This dish can be cooked in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavourful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
2. Customisable to Your Taste
Another reason to love Pad Kra Pao is its versatility. While traditional recipes call for minced pork or chicken, you can easily substitute the meat for tofu or even seafood to suit your dietary preferences. Additionally, you can adjust the level of spice to your liking by modifying the amount of bird’s eye chillies used. This customisability makes Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao accessible to a wide range of tastes.
3. Packed with Nutrients
Pad Kra Pao is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The inclusion of fresh herbs and vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, while the protein from the meat or tofu makes it a well-rounded meal. By making it at home, you can control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option compared to takeout.
4. A Sensory Delight
The vibrant colours and aromatic scents of Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao make it a feast for the senses. The sizzling sound of stir-frying ingredients, the fragrant aroma of garlic and basil, and the vibrant presentation on the plate make this dish a true sensory delight. Serving Pad Kra Pao over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice and topping it with a perfectly fried egg adds to the overall experience.
Tips for the Perfect Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao
While you may already have a recipe card for Pad Kra Pao, here are some additional tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The flavour of Pad Kra Pao is heavily reliant on the freshness of its ingredients. Try to use fresh garlic, chillies, and Thai basil for the best results.
- Don’t Skimp on the Basil: I’ll be honest, i’m not a huge fan of basil, however The holy basil is essential for achieving the authentic taste of Pad Kra Pao. Make sure to use a generous amount to ensure that the dish captures its signature flavour… or leave it out, the choice is yours!
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re cooking for a group with varying spice tolerances, consider serving extra chillies or a spicy sauce on the side so everyone can adjust the heat to their preference.
- Experiment with Proteins: While minced pork is traditional, don’t hesitate to try different proteins like beef, chicken, or even plant-based options like tempeh. Each variation brings its own unique flavour to the dish.
The Cultural Significance of Pad Kra Pao
In Thailand, food is not just about sustenance; it’s an integral part of the culture and way of life. Pad Kra Pao is often eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, showcasing its versatility and popularity. The dish is a testament to the Thai philosophy of balancing flavours—spicy, salty, sweet, and aromatic—creating a harmonious dining experience.
For many Thais, enjoying Pad Kra Pao is a nostalgic experience, evoking memories of street food stalls, family meals, and shared moments. By making this dish at home, you’re not just cooking; you’re participating in a rich cultural tradition that spans generations.
Conclusion
Home Made Spicy Pad Kra Pao is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavours, culture, and culinary tradition. With its quick preparation, customisable ingredients, and delightful taste, it’s no wonder that Pad Kra Pao has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers worldwide.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, making Pad Kra Pao at home allows you to experience the vibrant tastes of Thailand in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a delicious journey to Thailand with this beloved dish. Enjoy the process, savour the flavours, and share the joy of Pad Kra Pao with those you love!
