Easy Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow) (Print Version)
Quick Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow) recipe. This easy, flavorful plant-based dinner features crispy tofu, fresh basil, and a savory sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 12 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Thai
Dietary: Vegetarian, Vegan, Dairy-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Tofu & Garden Medley
01 -
16 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
02 -
1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
03 -
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
→ Fiery Aromatics
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
2-4 Thai bird's eye chilies, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
06 -
1 large shallot, thinly sliced
→ The Savory Krapow Sauce
07 -
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
08 -
1 tbsp dark soy sauce
09 -
2 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce
10 -
1 tbsp vegetarian "fish" sauce
11 -
1 tsp brown sugar
12 -
1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
13 -
2 tbsp vegetable oil
→ Fresh Basil & Serving
14 -
1 1/2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves, packed
15 -
3 cups cooked jasmine rice, for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
Press and cube 16 oz extra-firm tofu. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 2 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce, 1 tbsp vegetarian "fish" sauce, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth. This forms the base for your delicious Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow) | Easy Dinner.
02 -
Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed 16 oz extra-firm tofu and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside, leaving oil in the pan.
03 -
To the same wok, add 4 cloves minced garlic, 2-4 thinly sliced Thai bird's eye chilies, and 1 large thinly sliced shallot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. This aromatic base is key for a vibrant Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow) | Easy Dinner.
04 -
Add 1 cup fresh green beans (trimmed and halved) and 1 large red bell pepper (thinly sliced) to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining a slight crunch.
05 -
Return the cooked 16 oz extra-firm tofu to the wok with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared Savory Krapow Sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
06 -
Remove the wok from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups packed fresh Thai basil leaves until just wilted, about 30 seconds. The fresh basil is the signature finish for your authentic Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow) | Easy Dinner.
07 -
Serve your flavorful Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Pad Krapow) | Easy Dinner hot over 3 cups cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy this quick and satisfying meal!
# Notes:
01 -
Adjust the number of Thai bird's eye chilies to your preferred spice level. For less heat, remove the seeds or use fewer chilies.
02 -
Pressing the tofu thoroughly is crucial for a firm texture and better absorption of the delicious Krapow sauce. Don't skip this step!
03 -
While Thai basil offers the most authentic flavor, holy basil (Pad Krapow's traditional herb) or even Italian basil can be used in a pinch, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
04 -
For an even quicker "Easy Dinner," prepare your 3 cups cooked jasmine rice ahead of time.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or wok
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Spatula
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 365 kcal
Total Fat: 12 g
Total Carbohydrate: 49 g
Protein: 16 g