
Ground pork fries with garlic and chile before a handful of basil wilts into the savory soy and fish sauce glaze.
Breaking the pork into small pieces lets Thai Basil Pork brown quickly while staying juicy. The basil goes in after the sauce reduces, keeping its aroma strong instead of simmering it away.
Use a large skillet and have the sauce ready before cooking. Thai basil gives a sweet anise note; holy basil is pepperier, while ordinary basil offers a milder supermarket substitute.
Method
Mix soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar and water. Heat vegetable oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat; stir garlic and red chilies for until fragrant.
Add ground pork and cook for , breaking it apart, until browned and 160°F.
Pour in the sauce and cook for until reduced to a glossy coating. Remove from heat and fold in Thai basil until wilted.
Forkue tips
- Do not pack the pork into the pan; spread it out so some edges can brown.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate for 3 days. Reheat quickly in a skillet with a splash of water and add fresh basil if you have it.
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Nutrition per serving, estimated
Photo: Bitterschoko, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)
Thai Basil Pork: FAQ
Can I make it less hot?
Use one mild red chile or remove the seeds and inner ribs. The garlic and basil still provide plenty of aroma.
What should I serve with the pork?
Plain jasmine rice balances the concentrated sauce. A fried egg is also common, but is not included in the ingredients or nutrition.
How do I store and reheat Thai Basil Pork?
Refrigerate for 3 days. Reheat quickly in a skillet with a splash of water and add fresh basil if you have it.
How long does Thai Basil Pork take?
About 27 min in total: 15 min prep and 12 min cooking.
What do I need to make Thai Basil Pork?
The key ingredients are ground pork, thai basil, garlic, red chilies, soy sauce and fish sauce, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Thai Basil Pork?
Do not pack the pork into the pan; spread it out so some edges can brown.






