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You can make a surprising variety of dishes with Thai basil, from quick stir-fries and fragrant curries to fresh salads, refreshing drinks, and even unique desserts.
This vibrant herb, with its distinct anise-like flavor and purple stems, is a staple in Southeast Asian cooking.
If you’ve ever wondered what can you make with thai basil beyond the classic pad kra pao, you’re in for a treat.
Thai basil isn’t just a garnish; it’s a flavor powerhouse that can transform simple meals into something extraordinary.
In this post, we’ll explore many delicious ways to use Thai basil, so you can enjoy this aromatic herb all week long.
Let’s dive into the wonderful world of cooking with Thai basil.
What Can You Make With Thai Basil in Stir-Fries
The most iconic way to answer what can you make with thai basil is to start with stir-fries.
Thai basil thrives under high heat, releasing its sweet, spicy aroma into the sauce and meat.
It’s the star ingredient in many beloved Thai street food dishes.
1. Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Kra Pao)
This is the ultimate answer to what can you make with thai basil that is simple and satisfying.
You can make Thai basil chicken by stir-frying minced chicken with garlic, chilies, and a savory sauce.
The sauce typically combines oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar.
The key is to add a generous handful of Thai basil leaves right at the end of cooking.
The residual heat wilts the leaves just enough, releasing their essential oils into the dish.
This creates a fragrant, spicy, and utterly delicious meal served over steamed jasmine rice.
2. Thai Basil Beef or Pork
You can also make a fantastic stir-fry using sliced beef or pork with Thai basil.
Thinly sliced meat is quickly seared in a hot wok with shallots and garlic.
Add a splash of fish sauce and dark soy sauce for depth and color.
Toss in the Thai basil leaves and some sliced bell peppers for a crunchy texture.
Stir-frying with Thai basil in this way creates a robust and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice or noodles.
3. Seafood and Thai Basil Stir-Fry
What can you make with thai basil and seafood? Plenty.
Shrimp, squid, or flaky white fish fillets work beautifully with Thai basil.
Sauté your seafood with ginger and garlic, then add a sweet chili sauce.
Finish the dish with a big pile of Thai basil, letting it wilt into the glossy sauce.
The slight licorice flavor of the herb cuts through the richness of the seafood, creating a perfect balance.
What Can You Make With Thai Basil in Soups and Curries
Beyond the wok, Thai basil adds a fresh, aromatic lift to liquid-based dishes.
It’s a common finishing herb in many comforting bowls.
1. Thai Green or Red Curry
A spoonful of Thai basil is the perfect final touch to any Thai curry.
Whether you make a rich green curry with chicken or a red curry with vegetables, Thai basil belongs in it.
Add the leaves during the last minute of simmering, so they soften but keep their vibrant color.
The herb’s spicy, sweet flavor complements the creamy coconut milk and complex curry paste.
This simple addition makes a homemade curry taste incredibly authentic.
2. Vietnamese Pho
While not strictly Thai, this dish often uses the same herb.
You can make a steaming bowl of pho and serve it with a plate of fresh Thai basil.
It’s essential for the proper pho experience, allowing each person to tear leaves into their hot broth.
The herb adds a bright, peppery note that enhances the beefy, aromatic broth.
It’s a fresh garnish that takes the soup to a whole new level.
3. Spicy Noodle Soups
You can make any spicy noodle soup better with Thai basil.
Think of a hot and sour broth with rice noodles, shrimp, and mushrooms.
Adding Thai basil right before serving gives it a fresh, anise-like flavor.
It also adds a beautiful green color to the dish.
If you love Thai flavors, this is one of the best answers to what can you make with thai basil for a cozy meal.
What Can You Make With Thai Basil Fresh and Raw
Thai basil doesn’t have to be cooked to be enjoyed.
Its crisp texture and strong flavor make it a fantastic ingredient in fresh preparations.
1. Fresh Thai Basil Salad
You can make a vibrant and refreshing salad with raw Thai basil leaves.
Combine the leaves with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
A simple dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, and a little sugar ties it all together.
The whole leaves provide a wonderful burst of flavor with every bite.
This is a light and healthy option for lunch or as a side dish.
2. Summer Rolls with Thai Basil
Fresh summer rolls are another great answer to what can you make with thai basil.
Fill rice paper wrappers with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, and a few whole Thai basil leaves.
The herb’s unique flavor infuses the entire roll as you eat it.
It adds an aromatic complexity that pairs beautifully with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce.
3. Thai Basil Pesto
For a fun twist, you can make a delicious pesto using Thai basil instead of regular basil.
Blend Thai basil leaves with garlic, peanuts or cashews, parmesan, and olive oil.
This pesto has a spicy, distinct flavor that is amazing on pasta, toast, or grilled chicken.
It’s a quick and creative way to use a large amount of the herb at once.
What Can You Make With Thai Basil in Drinks and Desserts
The versatility of this herb reaches even into your glass or dessert bowl.
Its sweet and spicy notes are surprisingly adaptable.
1. Thai Basil Infused Simple Syrup
You can make a simple syrup infused with Thai basil for incredible cocktails and sodas.
Simmer equal parts water and sugar with a handful of bruised Thai basil leaves.
Once cool, strain the syrup and use it to sweeten iced tea, lemonade, or a gin and tonic.
It adds a subtle, floral, and peppery kick to any beverage.
2. Thai Basil Lemonade
A refreshing glass of Thai basil lemonade is a perfect summer drink.
Muddle Thai basil leaves in a glass with fresh lemon juice and the simple syrup mentioned above.
Add ice and sparkling water, and you have a unique, herbaceous drink.
It’s a fantastic way to cool down on a hot day.
3. Thai Basil Ice Cream or Panna Cotta
For the adventurous cook, you can make a sophisticated dessert with Thai basil.
Steep Thai basil leaves in warm cream and milk to infuse the liquid with its flavor.
This infused cream can then be used to make a unique custard for ice cream.
It creates a surprisingly delicious dessert with a peppery, sweet taste.
So, What Can You Make With Thai Basil?
You can make almost anything more delicious with Thai basil.
From iconic stir-fries and comforting curries to vibrant salads and creative cocktails, this herb is incredibly versatile.
So, what can you make with thai basil? The possibilities are truly endless.
We hope this guide has given you plenty of tasty ideas to start experimenting in your own kitchen.
Don’t be afraid to add a handful of Thai basil to your next meal.
Its unique flavor is sure to impress.
Happy cooking!