One-Pan Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Stir-Fry) for Busy Nights
Make an authentic Thai basil stir-fry in minutes using Lobo’s Holy Basil Paste — bold flavour, one pan, and a crispy fried egg on top.
Pad Kra Pao (also spelled Pad Krapow or Pad Ka Prao) is bold, aromatic, and full of umami. Traditionally made with fresh holy basil, garlic, and chilli, it's now even easier to cook thanks to Lobo Holy Basil Paste, which packs all that flavour into one convenient pouch.
It’s one of Thailand’s most popular lunch dishes, usually served over hot rice with a crispy fried egg on top — spicy, savoury, and satisfying.
What is Pad Kra Pao?
Pad Kra Pao (also spelled Pad Krapow or Pad Ka Prao) is bold, aromatic, and full of umami. Traditionally made with fresh holy basil, garlic, and chilli, it's now even easier to cook thanks to Lobo Holy Basil Paste, which packs all that flavour into one convenient pouch.
What You’ll Need
- Protein of choice (minced chicken, pork, beef or tofu)
- Lobo Holy Basil Paste
- Fried egg (a must-have finishing touch)
- Steamed jasmine rice, for serving
Optional: Add a splash of soy, oyster, or fish sauce to taste, and a pinch of sugar if you like it slightly sweeter — but honestly, the paste does most of the work for you.
How to Make It
-
Heat your pan
Add a little oil and stir-fry your chosen protein until just cooked. -
Add the paste
Stir in a generous spoonful of Lobo Holy Basil Paste and coat the meat evenly. Let it cook through for another 2–3 minutes. -
Top it off
Fry an egg until crispy on the edges, and serve everything over a bowl of hot jasmine rice.
Pro tip: We also still like to add in fresh holy basil when using the Lobo Holy Basil Paste! It rounds the dish off with a nice aromatic finish and hint of freshness!
Tips & Variations
- Prefer less heat? Add in a pinch of sugar to help mellow it out!
- Vegetarian? Swap out meat for tofu or mushrooms — it works beautifully.
- Want a full Thai meal? Pair with a light soup or Thai iced tea.
Why We Love It
- Authentic flavour in minutes
- One pan, no stress
- Perfect for weeknights
- No fresh herbs or prep needed
If you’ve never made Thai stir-fry at home, this is the place to start.
