Thai Basil Beef

Thin slices of tender steak cooked with fresh veggies and a savory sauce make Thai Basil Beef a delicious choice for dinner. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it brings the taste of Thailand right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, fish sauce, and Thai basil creates a vibrant flavor profile.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more Sambal Oelek or changing up the vegetables.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch for leftovers that taste great reheated.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Thai Basil Beef is straightforward with the right tools. Having everything ready makes cooking a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ensures even cooking of the beef and vegetables over high heat.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining sauces smoothly before adding them to the skillet.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients without lumps, especially for the sauce.
• Knife and Cutting board: Necessary for slicing the beef and chopping vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cups jasmine rice or long-grain white rice for serving
– 1 lb top sirloin steak, ribeye steak or flank steak, (sliced against the grain into thin strips)
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 2 Tbsp + 1 tsp vegetable oil
– 1 red bell pepper, (cored and seeded, diced into 2-inch strips)
– 1/2 large yellow onion, (thinly sliced)
– 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
– 1 cup matchstick carrots
– 1 cup fresh Thai basil or Italian basil leaves ((roughly chop larger leaves), plus more for garnish)
– Sesame seeds ((optional))
– 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch
– 1/3 cup water
– 1 1/2 Tbsp fish sauce
– 1 Tbsp oyster sauce
– 2 Tbsp packed brown sugar
– 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1 Tbsp Sambal Oelek, (or more to taste (optional))

How to Make Thai Basil Beef

Step 1: Prepare Rice

Cook rice according to directions listed on package.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce and cornstarch until smooth. Stir in water, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and Sambal Oelek if using. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Toss beef with 1 tablespoon oil and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over moderately high heat. Add half of the beef and cook until browned on both sides but still slightly undercooked in the center. Transfer beef to a plate while leaving oil in skillet; repeat with remaining oil and beef.

Step 4: Sauté Veggies

Reduce heat slightly; add bell pepper, onions, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until crisp-tender, about 2–3 minutes. If needed, add another teaspoon of oil to the skillet. Add carrots; whisk sauce mixture once more then pour into skillet.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Allow sauce to simmer while stirring frequently until thickened, about 1 minute. Return beef to skillet along with basil leaves; toss until basil has just wilted. Serve immediately over cooked rice garnished with small basil leaves and sesame seeds if desired.

How to Serve Thai Basil Beef

Thai Basil Beef is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

Serve Over Rice

• Jasmine Rice: The classic choice, jasmine rice adds a fragrant touch and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Long-Grain White Rice: A great alternative if jasmine rice isn’t available; it offers a nice texture.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Thai Basil Leaves: Garnish your dish with extra fresh basil for added aroma and vibrant color.
• Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro can bring an additional layer of freshness.

Pair with Lime Wedges

• Fresh Lime: Serve lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their portions for an extra zing.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor when sprinkled on top.
• Chopped Peanuts: For those who enjoy a bit of nuttiness, crushed peanuts provide texture and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Thai Basil Beef

Creating the perfect Thai Basil Beef dish requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use high-quality beef: Choosing top sirloin or ribeye steak ensures tenderness and rich flavor.
• Slice against the grain: This technique makes the beef easier to chew and enhances its tenderness.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking in batches prevents steaming, allowing for proper browning of the meat.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of Sambal Oelek based on your heat preference for personalized flavor.
• Add veggies last: Incorporating vegetables at the right time keeps them crisp and vibrant in color.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes enhances the mingling of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Thai Basil Beef

To complement your Thai Basil Beef, consider these delicious side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly. Each option brings its own unique flavors and textures.

1. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy cucumbers, herbs, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the beef.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition; it’s also easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
3. Egg Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice with eggs, peas, and carrots serves as a hearty companion to soak up any extra sauce.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a tasty appetizer or side that complements Asian cuisine beautifully.
5. Mango Salad: A sweet and tangy mango salad introduces fruity brightness that pairs well with savory dishes like Thai Basil Beef.
6. Thai Noodle Salad: Cold noodles tossed in a light dressing offer a delightful contrast to the warm beef dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Thai Basil Beef, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are a few common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not slicing the beef correctly: Make sure to slice the steak against the grain. This ensures tender pieces that are easier to chew. If you slice with the grain, your beef will be tough and chewy.
• Overcooking the beef: It’s important to cook the beef quickly over high heat. Remove it from the skillet while it’s still slightly under-cooked in the center. It will continue to cook when mixed with the veggies and sauce.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Don’t omit fresh Thai basil! It adds essential flavor and aroma to the dish. If Thai basil is hard to find, Italian basil can be used as a substitute, but it won’t have the same distinct taste.
• Using regular soy sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce instead. This helps you control salt levels in your dish without sacrificing flavor. Regular soy sauce can make your meal too salty.
• Neglecting preparation of ingredients: Have all ingredients prepped before starting. This includes slicing vegetables and measuring sauces. Cooking goes quickly, and you’ll want everything ready to go.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Cool down before refrigerating to avoid condensation buildup.

Freezing Thai Basil Beef

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Thai Basil Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warmed evenly, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for Thai Basil Beef?

The best cuts include top sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak. These cuts are tender and flavorful when cooked quickly at high heat.

Can I make Thai Basil Beef spicy?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by increasing the amount of Sambal Oelek or adding fresh chili peppers as desired.

How can I customize my Thai Basil Beef?

Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for extra nutrition and color. You can also substitute chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Is Thai Basil necessary for this recipe?

While traditional recipes use Thai basil for its unique flavor, you can substitute Italian basil if needed. However, keep in mind that it won’t replicate the authentic taste fully.

Final Thoughts

Thai Basil Beef is a delightful dish that combines tender meat with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste preferences! Give this quick and delicious recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!