Moo Pad Krapow
Cuisine: Thai Type: Entree AKA: Stir-Fried Pork with Basil

Representative image. Recipe yield may differ
Amounts
Ingredient
Amount (g)
Pork
1 pound (454)
Basil Leaves
2 cups (48)
Garlic
4 cloves (12)
Thai Chilies
5 pieces (10)
Oyster Sauce
2 tablespoons (30)
Fish Sauce
1 tablespoon (15)
Sugar
1 teaspoon (4)
Oil
2 tablespoons (30)
Totals
21 oz
(603 g)
Calories
Ingredient
Calories (kcal)
Pork
250
Basil Leaves
10
Garlic Cloves
15
Bird's Eye Chili
5
Vegetable Oil
100
Oyster Sauce
50
Soy Sauce
30
Fish Sauce
20
Sugar
20
Rice
200
Totals
700 kcal
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients by thinly slicing the pork into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the garlic and Thai chilies. Pluck the basil leaves from the stems and set aside.
Step 2: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly.
Step 3: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic and Thai chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 4: Add the sliced pork to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown and cook through.
Step 5: Season the pork with fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Stir well to evenly coat the meat.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to medium and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the pork is fully cooked and coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a pinch of sugar for a hint of sweetness or more fish sauce for saltiness.
Step 8: Turn off the heat and add the fresh basil leaves to the pan. Stir gently to wilt the basil leaves slightly.
Step 9: Transfer the Moo Pad Krapow to a serving plate. It is traditionally served with steamed rice and a fried egg on top.
Step 10: Garnish with some additional fresh basil leaves and sliced Thai chilies if desired.
Step 11: Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Stir-Fried Pork with Basil (Moo Pad Krapow)!
Note: You can also customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or green beans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
Substitutions
Substitutions/Alterations for Moo Pad Krapow (Stir-Fried Pork with Basil):
1. Pork:
- Substitute with chicken, beef, tofu, or shrimp.
- Adjust cooking time accordingly based on the protein chosen.
2. Thai Basil Leaves:
- Substitute with Italian basil or holy basil if available.
- Use the same quantity as mentioned in the original recipe.
3. Garlic:
- Substitute with garlic powder or granulated garlic.
- Use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder or 1/4 teaspoon of granulated garlic per clove of garlic.
4. Thai Chilies:
- Substitute with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Use 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper per Thai chili.
5. Fish Sauce:
- Substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian/vegan option.
- Use the same quantity as mentioned in the original recipe.
6. Oyster Sauce:
- Substitute with hoisin sauce or soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar for a vegetarian/vegan option.
- Use the same quantity as mentioned in the original recipe.
7. Cooking Oil:
- Substitute with any neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil.
- Use the same quantity as mentioned in the original recipe.
8. Sugar:
- Substitute with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
- Use the same quantity as mentioned in the original recipe.
Remember to adjust the cooking time and seasoning according to your taste preferences and the chosen substitutions.
Pairings
- Jasmine rice
- Fried egg
- Thai chili sauce
- Cucumber slices
- Lime wedges
- Steamed vegetables
- Fish sauce
- Thai iced tea
- Green papaya salad
- Fresh spring rolls
Upgrades
Enhancements for Moo Pad Krapow (Stir-Fried Pork with Basil):
1. Presentation:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve the dish in a carved-out pineapple or bell pepper shell for an elegant and unique presentation.
2. Texture/Flavor Profile:
- Add a handful of crispy fried shallots or garlic on top for a delightful crunch.
- Incorporate a small amount of finely chopped lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves to infuse the dish with a refreshing citrusy aroma.
3. Luxurious Ingredients:
- Upgrade the pork to premium cuts like tenderloin or loin for a more succulent and refined taste.
- Substitute regular basil with Thai holy basil or Thai sweet basil to enhance the flavor and add a touch of sophistication.
Remember, these enhancements are meant to elevate the dish and make it more visually appealing, flavorful, and luxurious, providing a next-level dining experience. Enjoy!
Diet Restrictions
- Use lean cuts of pork or substitute with chicken or tofu for a lower fat option.
- Reduce or omit the use of oil for a lighter version; consider using cooking spray or a non-stick pan instead.
- Increase the amount of vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, or broccoli) to boost fiber and nutrient content.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce sodium intake.
- Limit or omit the use of added sugar or sweet sauces like oyster sauce.
- Adjust the spiciness level by reducing or omitting chili peppers or using milder alternatives like bell peppers or paprika.
- Serve with brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a healthier carbohydrate option.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor without added calories.
- Personalize the dish by adding other vegetables or protein sources that suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
Healthy Choices
- Use lean cuts of pork or substitute with chicken or tofu for a lower-fat option.
- Reduce the amount of oil used for stir-frying by using non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of vegetable broth.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, for added nutrients and fiber.
- Opt for whole grain rice or noodles instead of white rice for higher fiber content.
- Use reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce sodium intake.
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor without adding extra calories.
- Limit the amount of added sugar or sweet sauces, such as oyster sauce or sweet chili sauce.
- Consider adding other herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, or chili flakes for additional flavor without adding extra calories.
- Enjoy the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to increase the overall nutritional value.
Shortcuts
1. Use ground pork instead of slicing pork into thin strips. This will reduce cooking time and make the dish more economical.
2. Opt for pre-packaged Thai basil paste or frozen basil cubes instead of fresh basil leaves. This saves time on washing and chopping fresh herbs while maintaining the authentic flavor.
3. Substitute regular soy sauce for Thai soy sauce or fish sauce. While it may not be an exact match, it will still provide a similar taste profile at a lower cost.
4. Consider using a pre-made stir-fry sauce instead of making it from scratch. Look for a Thai-style sauce that includes flavors like garlic, chili, and soy sauce to simplify the cooking process.
5. Prep and measure all ingredients before starting to cook. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
6. Utilize a non-stick pan or wok to reduce the need for excessive oil during stir-frying, saving both time and money.
7. Serve the dish with steamed rice instead of jasmine rice. Steamed rice is quicker to cook and is often more affordable.
8. Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for future quick meals. This way, you can save time and money by cooking in bulk and having ready-to-eat portions on hand.
9. Experiment with adding other affordable vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to stretch the dish and make it more filling without compromising the overall taste.
10. Consider using a meat substitute, such as tofu or seitan, instead of pork. This can be a more budget-friendly option while still providing a delicious stir-fry dish.