Basil fried rice is a delightful twist on the classic Thai-inspired dish that combines fragrant basil with the natural sweetness of tomatoes. This vegetarian version is loaded with juicy tomato chunks that add flavor and vibrant color.
Jump To
- What does basil fried rice taste like
- What is the difference between Thai basil and regular basil?
- Simple ingredients for Thai basil fried rice
- Step-by-step details instructions
- Pro tips for the perfect basil fried rice
- Storage and reheat
- What to serve with basil fried rice
- Final thoughts
- FAQs
- Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe
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It is comforting and a staple in Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine. The best part is that you can quickly cook it at home with simple ingredients. Let's dive into the ingredients, step-by-step directions, and tips for creating the perfect bowl of basil fried rice. So grab your wok, and let's get cooking!
What does basil fried rice taste like
Basil fried rice with tomato has a perfect balance of flavors: basil's fragrance, the savory umami from soy sauce and garlic, and the natural sweetness of juicy tomatoes. The tomatoes add a subtle tanginess that brightens the dish.
Together, these ingredients create a well-rounded flavor profile that is savory, fresh, and slightly sweet, with herbal undertones. It's comforting, and each bite is packed with flavor!
What is the difference between Thai basil and regular basil?
Thai and regular basil may look similar but have distinct flavors and uses. Thai basil, with its purple stems and slightly spicy, anise-like flavor, is commonly used in Asian dishes. In contrast, regular sweet basil, with its softer, sweeter, and pepperier taste, is a staple in Western kitchens. Both fresh and dry basil types are delicious; they add a unique depth to stir-fries, soups, and much more.
The basil I used in this recipe is homegrown, straight from my backyard. Nothing beats the freshness and aroma of harvesting your herbs! Feel free to use what you have for your delicious basil fried rice!
Simple ingredients for Thai basil fried rice
Let’s take a quick look at the following ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious basil fried rice recipe!
- Vegetable oil
- Cooked rice: Day old rice works best for that perfect texture in fried rice.
- Eggs: Adds richness and protein to the dish.
- Garlic cloves
- Small sweet onion: Adds sweetness to the dish.
- Tomatoes: Add a burst of freshness and a slightly sour flavor.
- Basil: It's the star of this dish! Feel free to use fresh or Thai holy basil leaves. You can get Thai basil in most Asian grocery stores.
- Sugar
- light soy sauce: For that savory umami flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: to taste.
- Lime: A fresh squeeze at the end brightens the dish. It is optional.
Step-by-step details instructions
Making basil fried rice is a straightforward process. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making it:
Prep the ingredients: Chop the tomato into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the sweet onion into small pieces. Separate the basil leaves from the stems and set aside. Scramble the eggs in a small pan and set aside.
Heat the wok or pan: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sauté the garlic and onions: Add the minced garlic and chopped onions to the hot oil. Stir fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Add the tomato: Add the chopped tomato to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Add the rice and scrambled eggs: Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the rice gets well-coated in the tomato juices and garlic. Fold the scrambled eggs into the fried rice and mix well.
Season the rice: Stir in the soy sauce, sugar, salt and black pepper. Continue to stir-fry the rice, making sure you evenly distribute seasonings.
Add the basil: Once the rice is well-fried and seasoned, add the fresh Thai basil leaves last. Stir quickly to wilt the basil and mix it into the rice. The heat from the rice will bring out the basil’s fragrant aroma.
Garnish and serve: Remove the fried rice from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onion, fresh-cut tomatoes, and fresh basil (optional), and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Pro tips for the perfect basil fried rice
These pro tips will help you make the perfect basil fried rice at home!
Use day-old rice: Cold, day-old rice is ideal for fried rice as it’s drier and less likely to clump together. Freshly cooked rice tends to get mushy. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread the newly cooked rice on a baking sheet and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to replicate the same effect.
Finish with fresh basil: Stir in basil leaves at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and fragrance.
Add a protein or veggies: Customize with tofu, shrimp, beef, or your favorite vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Storage and reheat
To store the leftover basil fried rice, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat the rice in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of water or a little oil to bring back its moisture and freshness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rice soggy. With these simple steps, your basil fried rice will taste as delicious as the day you made it!
What to serve with basil fried rice
Basil fried rice is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. You can serve it with crispy egg rolls, a light cucumber salad, or a bowl of warm soup for a classic Thai-inspired spread. If you're adding protein, grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu are excellent choices. These sides complement the flavors of the fried rice and make for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Final thoughts
If you want a quick, healthy meal, this vegetarian version of basil fried rice is the perfect dish for anyone craving a light and flavorful meal packed with fresh ingredients. Combining sweet, juicy tomatoes and basil creates a delicious bite in every spoonful.
Plus, it’s customizable to your tastes, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights. Enjoy your homemade basil fried rice that’s both simple and delicious!
FAQs
Basil fried rice can be healthy if prepared with fresh ingredients, lean protein, and limited oil. Watch the sodium levels in sauces to keep them balanced. Reducing oil and using brown jasmine rice can make it even healthier.
Basil fried rice may contain gluten if using regular soy sauce. You can make it gluten-free using gluten-free soy sauce. Always check the labels of sauces to ensure they are gluten-free.
Basil fried rice can be vegan with plant-based protein and without eggs or other animal-derived ingredients.
Yes, egg is often added to basil fried rice for texture and flavor, but it can be omitted for a vegan version.
Definitely! You can increase the amount of bird’s eye chilies or add a little chili paste to suit your spice tolerance. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Fresh basil is key to this dish’s flavor. Dried basil will not provide the same fragrant freshness, so it's best to use fresh if possible.
It is best for you to enjoy this dish fresh; you can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a pan with a bit of oil for the best texture.
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones in basil fried rice! Opt for diced or whole peeled tomatoes, and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the rice too wet. While fresh tomatoes add a burst of freshness, canned ones bring a deeper, more concentrated flavor that works nicely in this dish.
Yes, adding oyster sauce to basil fried rice is a great idea! (I did not add it to this recipe) It enhances the dish with a rich umami flavor and a touch of sweetness, giving the rice a deeper taste. Be mindful not to overdo it, as oyster sauce can be quite salty. A small amount goes a long way in balancing the flavors!
You can use a vegetarian oyster sauce in basil fried rice. It provides the same umami depth and savory richness without using oyster extracts, making it a perfect option for plant-based diets. The vegetarian version is typically made from mushrooms, soy sauce, and other seasonings, offering a delicious alternative without compromising flavor.
Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 5 cups cooked rice
- 3 eggs
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 small size sweet onion
- 2 cups tomato chunks
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- salt and black pepper to taste
- a small lime optional
- green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Chop the tomato into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the sweet onion into small pieces. Separate the basil leaves from the stems and set aside. Scramble the eggs in a small pan and set aside.
- Heat the wok or pan: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the garlic and onions: Add the minced garlic and chopped onions to the hot oil. Stir fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Add the tomato: Add the chopped tomato to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add the rice and scrambled eggs: Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the rice gets well-coated in the tomato juices and garlic. Fold the scrambled eggs into the fried rice and mix well.
- Season the rice: Stir in the soy sauce, sugar, salt and black pepper. Continue to stir-fry the rice, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Add the basil: Once the rice is well-fried and seasoned, add the fresh Thai basil leaves last. Stir quickly to wilt the basil and mix it into the rice. The heat from the rice will bring out the basil’s fragrant aroma.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the fried rice from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onion, fresh-cut tomatoes, and fresh basil (optional), and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
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