Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry Flavorful Dinner Delight

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Looking for a quick yet delicious dinner? Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry is your answer! This dish is packed with bold flavors and is easy to whip up on any busy night. With fresh basil, tender beef, and vibrant veggies, you’ll impress your family or guests in no time. Let me guide you through each step and share tips to make this meal a new favorite. Dive in for a flavorful adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce creates a delicious umami flavor that elevates the dish.
  3. Fresh Vegetables: With colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans, this stir fry is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
  4. Thai Basil Magic: The fragrant Thai basil adds a unique taste that truly makes this dish stand out.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
  • Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

You can add a red chili for heat. If you like more spice, use two!

Try some sliced green onions on top for crunch and color. A squeeze of lime adds fresh zest.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find flank steak, use sirloin or top round. They work well too!

For a veggie option, swap the meat with tofu or tempeh. Both absorb flavor nicely.

If you don’t have Thai basil, sweet basil or regular basil can do in a pinch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Beef

To start, take 1 pound of flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain. This helps keep the meat tender. Place the beef in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix well. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This step builds great flavor and makes the beef juicy.

Cooking Process in a Wok

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers. Add 4 minced garlic cloves. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds. Don’t let the garlic burn. Then, toss in the red bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir-fry these veggies for 3-5 minutes. They should stay tender-crisp.

Now, push the veggies to the side of the wok. Add the marinated beef to the center. Let it sear for 1-2 minutes without stirring. This helps develop a nice brown crust. After that, mix the beef with the veggies. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

Finally, add 1 cup of fresh Thai basil leaves and sliced red chili if you want heat. Toss everything together for about a minute. This lets the basil wilt and release its aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Remove the wok from heat. Serve the stir fry hot over cooked jasmine rice. You can garnish with more basil leaves if you like. This dish is colorful and full of bold flavors. The fresh taste of Thai basil makes it a standout meal. Enjoy your flavorful dinner delight!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Marinate Beef

To marinate beef, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Place thinly sliced flank steak in the mixture. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This step makes the beef tasty and tender. You can also add minced garlic for more flavor. Always use a bowl that can fit the meat well.

Best Practices for Stir-Frying Vegetables

Heat your wok or skillet on medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil until it shimmers. Start with garlic; it adds great aroma. Then, add vegetables like bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir-fry for about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep them crunchy, not mushy. If you want more color, add a red chili for heat.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Spices

For a flavor boost, think about adding black pepper or a pinch of cayenne. A splash of lime juice can brighten the dish. Always taste as you cook. This way, you can adjust the seasonings. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a refreshing touch. Mixing in these spices makes your dish unique and fun!

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors and tenderize the meat.
  2. High Heat is Key: Ensure your wok or skillet is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve a nice sear on the beef and keeps the vegetables crisp.
  3. Use Fresh Basil: Fresh Thai basil is essential for this dish. Add it at the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant flavor and aroma.
  4. Customize Your Heat: If you enjoy spicy dishes, don’t hesitate to add more red chili or even a dash of chili sauce to amp up the heat level.

Variations

Alternative Proteins for the Recipe

You can swap the flank steak for chicken, pork, or shrimp. Each protein brings its own flavor. Chicken thighs work well, as they stay juicy. Pork tenderloin adds richness, while shrimp cooks fast and tastes fresh. Just keep the same marinade for best results.

Vegetarian Version of Thai Basil Stir Fry

To make a vegetarian version, use tofu or tempeh. Both options soak up flavors well. Cut tofu into cubes and press out moisture. Stir-fry it until golden. You can also add mushrooms for a meaty texture. This keeps the dish satisfying without meat.

Customizing Vegetables Based on Season

Feel free to change up the veggies based on what’s fresh. In spring, use snap peas and asparagus. Summer is great for zucchini and bell peppers. Fall brings in squash and carrots. Winter can feature broccoli and bok choy. This keeps the dish lively and fun.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your Thai basil beef fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. This will keep the flavors intact. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it. This prevents condensation, which can make the food soggy.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them gently. Use a pan over medium heat for best results. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir often until it is hot. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Freezing Leftovers

If you want to save your beef stir fry for later, freezing is a great option. Let the dish cool completely. Then, scoop it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of beef is best for stir frying?

For stir frying, flank steak works best. It is thin and tender. This cut absorbs flavors well. Slice it against the grain for a softer bite. Sirloin or ribeye also make great choices. They add more flavor and tenderness.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

You can use dried basil, but fresh is better. Fresh Thai basil offers a unique taste. It adds a bright and fragrant note. If you must use dried, use less. About one teaspoon of dried basil is enough.

How spicy is Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry?

The spiciness can be mild or hot. It depends on the red chili you use. If you like it spicy, add more chili. For mild flavor, leave it out. Adjust the heat to fit your taste.

What can I serve with Thai Basil Beef?

Serve Thai Basil Beef with jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the tasty sauce. You can also add a side of stir-fried veggies. A light cucumber salad pairs well too. Add it for some crunch and freshness.

You learned about the key ingredients for making a delicious Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry. We covered prep steps, cooking tips, and how to store leftovers. I shared options for custom flavors and ways to make this dish both meaty and vegetarian.

Explore these ideas in your kitchen. Try new flavors. Enjoy your meals more with this fun stir fry. Your dishes will impress everyon

- 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced - 1 cup green beans, trimmed - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce - 1 tablespoon fish sauce - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves - 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for heat) - Cooked jasmine rice, for serving You can add a red chili for heat. If you like more spice, use two! Try some sliced green onions on top for crunch and color. A squeeze of lime adds fresh zest. If you cannot find flank steak, use sirloin or top round. They work well too! For a veggie option, swap the meat with tofu or tempeh. Both absorb flavor nicely. If you don’t have Thai basil, sweet basil or regular basil can do in a pinch. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, take 1 pound of flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain. This helps keep the meat tender. Place the beef in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix well. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This step builds great flavor and makes the beef juicy. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers. Add 4 minced garlic cloves. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds. Don't let the garlic burn. Then, toss in the red bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir-fry these veggies for 3-5 minutes. They should stay tender-crisp. Now, push the veggies to the side of the wok. Add the marinated beef to the center. Let it sear for 1-2 minutes without stirring. This helps develop a nice brown crust. After that, mix the beef with the veggies. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Finally, add 1 cup of fresh Thai basil leaves and sliced red chili if you want heat. Toss everything together for about a minute. This lets the basil wilt and release its aroma. Remove the wok from heat. Serve the stir fry hot over cooked jasmine rice. You can garnish with more basil leaves if you like. This dish is colorful and full of bold flavors. The fresh taste of Thai basil makes it a standout meal. Enjoy your flavorful dinner delight! To marinate beef, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Place thinly sliced flank steak in the mixture. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This step makes the beef tasty and tender. You can also add minced garlic for more flavor. Always use a bowl that can fit the meat well. Heat your wok or skillet on medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil until it shimmers. Start with garlic; it adds great aroma. Then, add vegetables like bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir-fry for about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep them crunchy, not mushy. If you want more color, add a red chili for heat. For a flavor boost, think about adding black pepper or a pinch of cayenne. A splash of lime juice can brighten the dish. Always taste as you cook. This way, you can adjust the seasonings. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a refreshing touch. Mixing in these spices makes your dish unique and fun! Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors and tenderize the meat. High Heat is Key: Ensure your wok or skillet is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve a nice sear on the beef and keeps the vegetables crisp. Use Fresh Basil: Fresh Thai basil is essential for this dish. Add it at the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant flavor and aroma. Customize Your Heat: If you enjoy spicy dishes, don't hesitate to add more red chili or even a dash of chili sauce to amp up the heat level. {{image_2}} You can swap the flank steak for chicken, pork, or shrimp. Each protein brings its own flavor. Chicken thighs work well, as they stay juicy. Pork tenderloin adds richness, while shrimp cooks fast and tastes fresh. Just keep the same marinade for best results. To make a vegetarian version, use tofu or tempeh. Both options soak up flavors well. Cut tofu into cubes and press out moisture. Stir-fry it until golden. You can also add mushrooms for a meaty texture. This keeps the dish satisfying without meat. Feel free to change up the veggies based on what's fresh. In spring, use snap peas and asparagus. Summer is great for zucchini and bell peppers. Fall brings in squash and carrots. Winter can feature broccoli and bok choy. This keeps the dish lively and fun. To keep your Thai basil beef fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. This will keep the flavors intact. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it. This prevents condensation, which can make the food soggy. When you are ready to eat your leftovers, reheat them gently. Use a pan over medium heat for best results. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir often until it is hot. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking. If you want to save your beef stir fry for later, freezing is a great option. Let the dish cool completely. Then, scoop it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For stir frying, flank steak works best. It is thin and tender. This cut absorbs flavors well. Slice it against the grain for a softer bite. Sirloin or ribeye also make great choices. They add more flavor and tenderness. You can use dried basil, but fresh is better. Fresh Thai basil offers a unique taste. It adds a bright and fragrant note. If you must use dried, use less. About one teaspoon of dried basil is enough. The spiciness can be mild or hot. It depends on the red chili you use. If you like it spicy, add more chili. For mild flavor, leave it out. Adjust the heat to fit your taste. Serve Thai Basil Beef with jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the tasty sauce. You can also add a side of stir-fried veggies. A light cucumber salad pairs well too. Add it for some crunch and freshness. You learned about the key ingredients for making a delicious Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry. We covered prep steps, cooking tips, and how to store leftovers. I shared options for custom flavors and ways to make this dish both meaty and vegetarian. Explore these ideas in your kitchen. Try new flavors. Enjoy your meals more with this fun stir fry. Your dishes will impress everyone!

Thai Basil Beef Stir Fry

A flavorful and quick stir fry featuring tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic Thai basil.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 1 unit red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
  • 1 unit cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, marinate the sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar for about 15 minutes.
  • In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Add the minced garlic to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
  • Push the vegetables to the side of the wok and add the marinated beef to the center. Let it sear for 1-2 minutes without stirring, then mix with the vegetables and cook until the beef is browned and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
  • Add the fresh Thai basil and sliced red chili (if using) to the wok. Toss everything together for another minute until the basil wilts and is fragrant.
  • Remove from heat and serve hot over cooked jasmine rice.

Notes

Serve with jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Keyword beef, quick meal, stir-fry, Thai basil

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