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Quick 30-Minute Thai Basil Beef Stir-Fry

quick thai basil beef stir-fry - featured image

A quick and easy Thai basil beef stir-fry that delivers bold, vibrant flavors in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or peanut oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar

Instructions

  1. Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine ground beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and cornstarch. Mix gently and let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Prep veggies: Mince garlic, slice chilies thinly, thinly slice onion and red bell pepper, rinse and pat dry Thai basil leaves.
  3. Heat wok or skillet over high heat for 2 minutes. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Add minced garlic and sliced chilies to hot oil. Stir quickly until fragrant and golden, about 1 minute.
  5. Add marinated beef, spread out and sear without stirring for 2 minutes, then stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes total.
  6. Add sliced onion and red bell pepper. Stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, and 1 tsp sugar. Stir to combine and let sauce thicken slightly, about 2 minutes.
  8. Add fresh Thai basil leaves and stir until wilted but still bright green, about 1 minute. Remove from heat immediately.
  9. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or preferred grain.

Notes

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free needs. Substitute ground chicken, turkey, or tofu for a leaner or vegetarian option. Add fresh lime juice at the end for a bright finish. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat and crisp textures. Add basil at the end and remove from heat quickly to keep it vibrant.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai basil beef stir-fry, quick stir-fry, Thai recipe, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, spicy stir-fry