Thai Basil Stir-Fry Recipe

Jasmine rice: A fragrant, long-grain rice that pairs perfectly with the stir-fry.

Tofu: Firm tofu holds its shape well when cubed and cooked, providing a great source of protein.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

Hoisin sauce: A sweet and savory sauce that enhances the overall taste.

Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the tofu and vegetables.

Onion: Adds a sweet and slightly pungent flavor when sautéed.

Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic base for the stir-fry.

Bell pepper: Adds a sweet and crunchy texture.

Green beans: Contributes a fresh and crisp element to the dish.

Thai basil leaves: Imparts a unique, aromatic flavor that distinguishes this stir-fry.

Chili flakes: Optional, for adding a bit of heat to the dish.

When preparing tofu, ensure you press it well to remove excess moisture before cubing. This helps achieve a golden brown and crispy texture when cooking. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of hoisin sauce for at least 15 minutes before frying.

• Jasmine rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice is a whole grain and provides more fiber and nutrients compared to jasmine rice.

• Firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh is a fermented soy product that has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor, making it a great protein-rich alternative.

• Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor.

• Hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce offers a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile, making it a good alternative to hoisin sauce.

• Vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• Onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can add a different depth to the dish.

• Garlic - Substitute with ginger: Ginger provides a different aromatic and spicy note, which can complement the other flavors in the stir-fry.

• Bell pepper - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a mild flavor and similar texture, making it a good alternative to bell peppers.

• Green beans - Substitute with snap peas: Snap peas have a similar crunch and slightly sweet flavor, making them a great substitute for green beans.

• Thai basil leaves - Substitute with regular basil: Regular basil has a similar aromatic quality, though it is less spicy and more sweet compared to Thai basil.

• Chili flakes - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar heat level and can be easily adjusted to taste.

• Allow the Thai Basil Stir-Fry to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the stir-fry to an airtight container. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for maintaining freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The stir-fry will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the stir-fry. Place the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to eat, thaw the stir-fry in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the stir-fry in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. Place the stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• If the Thai basil leaves lose their vibrant color or texture after reheating, consider adding fresh basil just before serving to enhance the dish's flavor and appearance.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of vegetable oil or a few tablespoons of water to prevent sticking.
  3. Add the leftover Thai Basil Stir-Fry to the pan.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.
  5. If the rice seems dry, add a bit more water or a splash of soy sauce to rehydrate.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir.
  4. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the dish is heated through.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the leftover stir-fry evenly in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check to ensure the dish is heated thoroughly before serving.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Set up your steamer and bring the water to a boil.
  2. Place the leftover stir-fry in a heatproof dish that fits inside the steamer.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
  4. This method helps retain the moisture and freshness of the vegetables and tofu.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover stir-fry in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check to make sure the dish is heated through before serving.

• Pan: A large, flat-bottomed pan is essential for stir-frying the tofu and vegetables evenly.

• Spatula: A spatula helps in flipping the tofu and stirring the vegetables without breaking them.

• Knife: A sharp knife is needed for slicing the onion, bell pepper, and trimming the green beans.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping all the vegetables and tofu.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili flakes.

• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl can be used to toss the tofu in soy sauce before cooking.

• Garlic press: A garlic press makes mincing the garlic quick and easy.

• Rice cooker: A rice cooker ensures perfectly cooked jasmine rice to serve with the stir-fry.

• Serving spoon: A serving spoon is useful for plating the stir-fry over the jasmine rice.

• Tongs: Tongs can be used to handle the tofu and vegetables while cooking.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, bell pepper, and green beans ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked rice: Save time by using pre-cooked jasmine rice or microwaveable rice packets.

Press tofu ahead: Press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking to ensure it browns faster.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Organize your workspace: Keep all ingredients and utensils within reach to streamline the cooking process.