Stir-Fried Thai Basil (Pad Ka Prow-Vegetarian)

By Sho @ Hungry for Thai on Aug 11th 2024

Stir-Fried Thai Basil (Vegetarian) is a quick and easy vegetarian street food option that captures the bold and aromatic flavors of traditional Thai cuisine. Cooked with Beyond Meat, garlic, chili, and fragrant holy basil, this dish offers a delicious and satisfying taste experience for everyone, perfect for a fast and flavorful meal.

Pad Ka Prow, also known as Thai Basil Stir-Fry, is one of the most popular and beloved street food dishes in Thailand.

This spicy Thai stir-fry is made with holy basil (ka prow), garlic, fresh chilies, and your choice of protein—whether it’s chicken (Pad Ka Prow Gai), pork (Pad Ka Prow Moo), or even crispy pork belly (Pad Ka Prow Moo Krob).

What makes this dish a must-try? It’s bold, garlicky, and packed with spicy flavors, making it the ultimate Thai comfort food.

Plus, you can adjust the spice level to your liking, whether you prefer it mild or extra fiery.

Served over fluffy jasmine rice and topped with a crispy Thai-style fried egg (kai dao), this dish is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

If you love authentic Thai recipes or want to try an easy Thai stir-fry, Pad Ka Prow is a must-add to your home-cooked meal list! 🇹🇭🔥

What you'll need

• Beyond Mince : A plant-based protein that mimics the texture and taste of meat, perfect for vegetarian & vegan dishes.
• Holy Basil Leaves : Adds a distinctive peppery flavor and fragrance, essential to authentic Thai basil stir-fry.
• Garlic : Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor.
• Chili : Brings a spicy kick that elevates the dish, adding heat and vibrant color.
• Cooking Oil : Used for sautéing ingredients to create a flavorful stir-fry.
• Mushroom Sauce : Adds a savory, umami depth to the dish, complementing the other flavors.
• Salt : Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Water : Helps create a slightly saucy consistency, ensuring the flavors coat every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Stir-Fried Thai Basil (Pad Ka Prow-Vegetarian) Recipe 🩷

✔ Authentic Thai Flavor – This vegetarian Pad Ka Prow delivers all the bold, garlicky, and spicy flavors of the classic Thai basil stir-fry—without meat!

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, this stir-fry is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal when you’re short on time.

✔ Customizable Spice Level – Love extra heat? Add more chilies! Prefer it milder? Tone it down—you control the spice.

✔ Healthy & Plant-Based – This recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan, packed with protein from tofu (or your choice of plant-based protein).

✔ Pairs Perfectly with Rice – Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice for a satisfying and complete meal.

How to Cook Stir-Fried Thai Basil

Quick, easy, and delicious! 😊

1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add cooking oil.
2. Sauté minced garlic and chili until fragrant.
3. Add Beyond Meat, stir-fry until cooked through.
4. Season with mushroom sauce, salt, and black soy sauce. Adjust to taste.
5. Add water if a saucier consistency is desired.
6. Add holy basil, stir-fry until wilted.

What to serve with Stir-Fried Thai Basil (Pad Ka Prow-Vegetarian & Vegan)

Pad Ka Prow, is typically served with steamed jasmine rice, which helps balance out the spicy and savory flavors of the dish.

Here are some traditional accompaniments and side dishes that pair well with Stir-Fried Thai Basil:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The most common and traditional pairing that helps soak up the flavorful sauce of the dish.
2. Fried Egg (Kai Dao): A fried egg with a runny yolk adds richness and complements the dish’s flavors.
3. Sliced Cucumber: Served as a refreshing side to contrast the spiciness of the dish. After the meal: Complete your meal with Thai Sago Pudding or Bananas in Sweet Coconut Milk .