Thai Basil Beef (Pad Krapow)

For the Beef Stir-Fry

½ kg ground beef (or substitute with ground pork or chicken)

1 tbsp vegetable oil

5 cloves garlic (minced)

2 Thai chilies (finely chopped, adjust for spice)

1 small onion (thinly sliced)

1 bell pepper (sliced, optional)

1 cup Thai basil leaves (fresh, do not substitute with regular basil)

1 tsp sugar

For the Sauce

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce

1 tsp fish sauce (adds authentic umami depth)

1 tsp dark soy sauce (for color, optional)

1 tsp rice vinegar (or lime juice)

½ tsp white pepper (or black pepper)

For Serving

Steamed jasmine rice

4 fried eggs (crispy edges, runny yolk recommended)

Lime wedges (optional)

Prepare the Sauce

Mix the Sauce Ingredients:

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper.
Set aside for later.

Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat Oil in a Pan:
- Over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil to a wok or skillet.
Cook the Garlic and Chilies:
- Add minced garlic and Thai chilies, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Ground Beef:
- Break the beef apart and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.
Toss in the Onion and Bell Pepper:
- Stir in onions and bell peppers (if using), and cook for another 2 minutes.

Add the Sauce and Basil

Pour the Sauce Over the Beef:
- Stir well and let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add Thai Basil at the End:
- Turn off the heat and gently fold in the Thai basil leaves.
- Let them wilt slightly from the residual heat.

Serve with Rice and Fried Egg

Prepare Jasmine Rice:
- Serve a scoop of steamed jasmine rice in a bowl or plate.
Top with the Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry.
Fry the Eggs:
- In a separate pan, fry eggs with a little oil until the edges are crispy but the yolk remains runny.
Garnish and Serve:
- Place the fried egg on top of the beef and rice.
- Add lime wedges on the side for extra freshness.

Pro Tips

For Extra Crispy Fried Egg: Use high heat and a generous amount of oil for crispy edges.
Adjust Spice Level: Use mild chilies or omit them for a less spicy version.
Make It Healthier: Use lean ground chicken or turkey instead of beef.