Top Health Benefits of Pad Kra Pao You Need to Know

Pad Kra Pao with Rice and Fried Egg is a flavorful and satisfying dish that offers a well-balanced mix of macronutrients, making it a wholesome meal for many. It provides a rich source of high-quality protein from ground meat and eggs, which supports muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full for longer. The inclusion of Thai basil and chili peppers adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the rice supplies complex carbohydrates that provide energy. Additionally, the egg on top not only enhances the taste and texture but also contributes essential vitamins such as B12, D, and healthy fats. If lean meats like chicken or turkey are used, and oil is minimized, the dish can be both high in protein and moderate in calories. This meal is also adaptable and can include vegetables for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a nutrient-dense plate overall.

Ingredients :

Minced / Beef Shoulder : 400 g

Beef Neck- Beef Round- Lamb Shoulder- Goat Shoulder-

Garlic : 6 clove

Chili Pepper : 2 Piece

Basil (Fresh) : 1 Cup

chopped / Green onions : 3 Tablespoon

Frying Oil : as needed

Chicken Egg : 4 Piece

Cooked / White Rice : 3 Cup

Soy Sauce : 3 Tablespoon

Oyster Sauce : 2 Tablespoon

fish sauce : 1 Tablespoon

Sugar : 1 Tablespoon

A quick and spicy Thai dish with Pad Kra Pao - a explosion of flavor with rice, basil, and a perfectly sunny side up egg!

Recipe :

For 4 people

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Finely chop 4 cloves of garlic and 4 red chilies.
Chop 400g ground chicken (or beef/pork).
Wash and separate 1 cup of fresh Thai basil leaves.
Slice 1 red bell pepper (optional, for color and sweetness).

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Cook 2 cups of jasmine rice according to package instructions and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or pan over high heat.
Add the chopped garlic and chilies, and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Ground Meat

Add the ground chicken and cook while breaking it apart until browned.
Optional: add bell pepper slices and cook for 2-3 more minutes.

Step 5: Season the Dish

Add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon fish sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar.
Stir everything well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 6: Add Basil Leaves

Turn off the heat and quickly stir in the Thai basil leaves until wilted.

Step 7: Fry the Eggs

In a separate pan, heat some oil and fry 4 eggs sunny-side-up until the edges are crispy but yolks remain runny.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the rice onto plates, top with the stir-fried meat mixture.
Place one fried egg on top of each portion.
Optionally garnish with chopped green onions or sliced chilies.

Enjoy your spicy and savory Thai basil stir-fry with rice and a perfectly fried egg!

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Pad Kra Pao

When preparing Pad Kra Pao, it’s essential to maintain high heat for quick stir-frying, which helps preserve the freshness and flavor of the ingredients. Use a wok or a wide pan to prevent steaming and ensure everything cooks evenly. Chop the garlic and chilies finely to release their full aroma and flavor. Don’t overcook the basil – add it at the very end to retain its fragrance and vibrant color. For the egg, frying it with a slightly crispy edge and a runny yolk enhances the dish’s richness. Use sauces like soy and oyster in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish and to control sodium levels. Adjust the chili quantity according to your spice tolerance. Pre-cooking the rice or using day-old rice helps with texture and prevents the dish from becoming soggy. Lastly, use a high smoke point oil like canola or sunflower to avoid burning at high heat.

Nutritional Information and Diet Compatibility of Pad Kra Pao

This dish suits several dietary lifestyles, particularly high-protein and low-calorie diets, as long as portion control and lean meat choices are maintained. It can also be compatible with the DASH diet when sodium-rich sauces are limited. However, it is not inherently suitable for ketogenic or paleo diets due to the rice, though modifications such as using cauliflower rice can make it compliant. It is not appropriate for vegan or vegetarian diets unless the meat is replaced with plant-based alternatives and the egg is omitted or substituted. Those following gluten-free diets should use certified gluten-free soy or tamari sauce, as regular soy sauce often contains wheat. Individuals on fasting or intermittent fasting schedules may find this meal ideal to break a fast due to its nutrient density. As always, dietary needs vary per person, and adjustments can make this popular Thai dish more inclusive across different nutritional frameworks.