A fragrant and flavourful dish, Thai Basil Beef pairs perfectly with lemongrass-infused rice for a satisfying meal. The combination of savoury beef, aromatic basil, and zesty lemongrass creates a dish that is both comforting and vibrant.
Ingredients
For the lemongrass rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
For the Thai basil beef:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chilli, finely sliced (optional)
- 500g beef mince (or thinly sliced beef)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp white pepper
- 1 handful Thai basil leaves (regular basil can be substituted)
- 1 spring onion, sliced
- ½ lime, for serving
For garnish:
- 1 fried egg per serving (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Extra sliced red chilli
Method
- Prepare the lemongrass rice:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, combine rice, water, lemongrass, garlic, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Cook the Thai basil beef:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and chilli, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the beef mince and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and white pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavours to combine.
- Toss in the Thai basil leaves and sliced spring onion, stirring until the basil is wilted. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Divide the lemongrass rice between serving bowls.
- Spoon the Thai basil beef over the top.
- Optionally, top each bowl with a fried egg for extra richness.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander, extra red chilli, and a squeeze of lime.
- Enjoy immediately while warm.
This dish delivers a delicious balance of bold flavours and fragrant herbs, making it a fantastic addition to any meal rotation.
