The rich, savory flavors of the beef combined with the heat from the Thai chilies and the fresh brightness of basil create a perfect harmony in these Thai Basil Beef Bowls. Served over fragrant jasmine rice, this dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it a great choice for a busy weeknight dinner.
The ingredients are simple yet incredibly effective, creating a bold flavor profile that will surely become a household favorite. The combination of fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce gives the beef a deep umami taste, while the fresh basil leaves offer a fragrant finish. Whether you are craving something spicy or looking to spice up your usual dinner routine, this Thai Basil Beef Bowl will not disappoint.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1 pound ground beef
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 shallot, thinly sliced
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2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, minced (or adjust to spice level)
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1 tablespoon fish sauce
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
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Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Directions:
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic, shallot, and Thai chilies. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook for another minute, until the basil is wilted.
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Serve the Thai basil beef mixture over hot jasmine rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 360 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Origins of Thai Basil Beef Bowls
Thai food is known for its incredible balance of flavors, and one ingredient that consistently stands out is Thai basil. Unlike sweet basil, which is more common in Western cooking, Thai basil has a slightly spicy, peppery flavor with a hint of anise. This herb is the perfect addition to a dish like Thai Basil Beef Bowls, where the beef provides a savory base and the basil adds a burst of freshness.
Thai Basil Beef Bowls likely originated as street food in Thailand. The dish is simple yet full of flavor, and it’s commonly enjoyed over fragrant jasmine rice. Over time, this dish has become popular in many parts of the world for its bold flavors and straightforward preparation.
What Makes Thai Basil Beef Bowls Unique?
Thai Basil Beef Bowls stand out because of the dynamic flavors they bring to the table. The rich ground beef pairs perfectly with the fresh, aromatic basil, creating a deliciously complex taste profile. Fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce provide deep, savory notes, while Thai bird’s eye chilies give the dish a spicy kick that adds excitement without overpowering the flavors. The combination of salty, spicy, and herbal notes makes this dish both satisfying and full of personality.
Another unique element of this dish is the use of chicken broth, which adds a delicate flavor and helps to bring everything together. The broth makes the sauce slightly lighter, preventing the dish from feeling too greasy or heavy while still offering a rich and flavorful finish.
How to Make Thai Basil Beef Bowls Your Own
While the classic recipe for Thai Basil Beef Bowls is incredibly flavorful, it’s also highly customizable. If you’re not a fan of beef, you can easily swap it out for ground chicken, turkey, or even pork. For a vegetarian version, try using tofu or tempeh as the base. Thai basil is the star of the dish, but you can experiment with other herbs, such as cilantro or mint, to add new layers of flavor.
If you prefer a less spicy dish, simply reduce the number of bird’s eye chilies used. These small, hot chilies can pack quite a punch, so you can adjust the heat to suit your personal taste. Similarly, you can modify the amounts of fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce to make the dish as salty or sweet as you like.
Health Benefits of Thai Basil Beef Bowls
Beyond their amazing taste, Thai Basil Beef Bowls also offer several health benefits. The dish incorporates fresh herbs like basil, which is rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins. Thai basil, in particular, is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can promote better digestion.
Ground beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. If you’re looking to make the dish lighter, consider substituting jasmine rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice. Brown rice provides more fiber and nutrients, while cauliflower rice offers a low-carb option that pairs perfectly with the savory beef.
Thai Basil Beef Bowls are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for people with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet. By making the dish at home, you can ensure it meets your dietary preferences and restrictions.
Serving Suggestions for Thai Basil Beef Bowls
While Thai Basil Beef Bowls are already a complete meal when served over jasmine rice, there are plenty of ways to customize your serving. For extra richness, top your bowls with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds a silky texture and balances the savory flavors.
If you’d like to add more vegetables, you can serve the dish alongside a fresh cucumber salad with lime and chili for a refreshing contrast. Stir-fried or steamed vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, also make great accompaniments to add more color and nutrition to your meal.
Why Thai Basil Beef Bowls Are Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
One of the best things about Thai Basil Beef Bowls is how quick and easy they are to prepare. The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful, home-cooked meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The ingredients are simple and easy to find at most grocery stores, so you don’t need to hunt down specialty items. You can make a large batch to feed the whole family or scale the recipe down for a quick meal for one. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Conclusion: Thai Basil Beef Bowls Are a Flavorful Favorite
Thai Basil Beef Bowls are a flavorful and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. The combination of ground beef, fresh basil, and Thai-inspired sauces creates a savory, spicy, and aromatic bowl of goodness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish is both simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
The best part about Thai Basil Beef Bowls is their versatility. You can easily adapt the dish to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for almost any occasion. So, if you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal, Thai Basil Beef Bowls are definitely worth a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish becomes a regular part of your weekly dinner plan.