Recipes Thai Basil Fried Rice With Tofu

Thai Basil Fried Rice with Tofu: A Culinary Symphony of Flavors

Thai basil fried rice, a beloved dish in Thai cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant flavors, aromatic herbs, and tender textures. This culinary masterpiece combines the essence of Thailand’s culinary heritage with the versatility of tofu, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

For the Fried Rice:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old
• 1 cup chopped Thai basil leaves
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped garlic
• 1/4 cup chopped ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Tofu:

• 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For Serving:

• Lime wedges
• Sriracha sauce (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Tofu:

1. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch and soy sauce.
3. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture to coat evenly.

Cooking the Tofu:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Fried Rice:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper and cook until slightly softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook the rice until heated through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the Thai basil leaves and green onions and cook for an additional minute, or until wilted.

Combining the Tofu and Rice:

1. Add the cooked tofu cubes to the fried rice and stir gently to combine.
2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tofu is heated through.

Serving:

1. Transfer the Thai basil fried rice with tofu to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with lime wedges and Sriracha sauce, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Thai Basil Fried Rice:

• Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice will be too moist and sticky for fried rice. Using day-old rice allows it to dry out slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and separated texture.
• Press the tofu: Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more flavor and become crispy when cooked.
• Cook the rice over high heat: High heat helps to create a slight char on the rice, enhancing its flavor.
• Stir-fry the vegetables: Stir-frying the vegetables quickly over high heat helps to retain their vibrant colors and crisp texture.
• Add the herbs last: Thai basil and green onions are delicate herbs that should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve their freshness and aroma.
• Adjust the seasonings to taste: The amount of soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar can be adjusted to your personal preference.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your fried rice, such as snap peas, corn, or mushrooms.
• Use different proteins: Tofu can be replaced with chicken, shrimp, or beef for a different protein option.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the fish sauce and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add an egg: Crack an egg into the fried rice towards the end of cooking for an extra layer of richness.

Conclusion:

Thai basil fried rice with tofu is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the vibrant flavors and aromatic herbs of Thai cuisine. With its tender tofu, fragrant herbs, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a novice cook, this recipe will guide you in creating a dish that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the wok, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.