Does basil go well with rice?

Absolutely. Thai basil’s peppery-sweet and slightly anise-like flavor complements the mildness of rice, creating a dish that’s both aromatic and flavorful.

How is Thai fried rice different from Chinese fried rice?

While Chinese fried rice often features soy sauce, green onions, and neutral flavors, Thai fried rice introduces herbs like Thai basil and chilies for a more vibrant and spicy flavor profile. Jasmine rice also gives it a softer texture and fragrant aroma.

What makes Thai fried rice taste different?

Thai fried rice stands out for its use of jasmine rice, Thai basil, fish sauce, and oyster sauce. These ingredients create a unique aromatic profile, while cooking over high heat adds a slight smokiness.

What is Thai basil fried rice?

Thai basil fried rice is a fragrant stir-fried rice dish made with jasmine rice, Thai basil, soy sauce, oyster sauce, chilies, garlic, and a choice of protein such as shrimp or chicken. It’s known for its balance of sweet, spicy, and herbaceous flavors.

Thai Basil Fried Rice: The Most Delicious Thai Recipe You Must Try

Description

A flavorful Thai Basil Fried Rice packed with tender shrimp, aromatic herbs, and a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes. Quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked and cooled white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive, avocado, or peanut oil)
⅓ pound large prawns or shrimp (about 12-15)
1 shallot (or ½ onion), diced
2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1–2 Thai chili peppers (optional)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1½ tablespoons soy sauce
1½ tablespoons oyster sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2–3 sprigs Thai basil
To serve: tomato wedges, cucumber slices, lime wedges

Instructions

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Add a little more oil if needed, then stir in shallots, white part of green onions, garlic, and Thai chili. Cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
Push aromatics to one side of the pan. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble just until set. Mix with aromatics.
Stir in the cooked rice along with soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir-fry until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Return shrimp to the pan and stir in Thai basil. Let the bottom crisp for 1–2 minutes if desired, then stir again.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra basil, green onions, and a squeeze of lime. Serve hot with tomato and cucumber slices.

Notes

Use day-old rice for the best texture.
Adjust chili peppers to your spice preference.
Substitute chicken, tofu, or beef for shrimp if desired.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for variety.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: Thai Basil Fried Rice, Shrimp Fried Rice, Thai stir fry, easy Thai rice recipe