Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe

Bring the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen with this easy to make Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry. This dish marries the rich taste of beef with the fragrant Thai basil and the umami-packed stir-fry sauce. Rice noodles add a delightful texture, making every bite an exciting taste adventure.

Photos of Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe

This recipe calls for Thai basil, which is not to be confused with the common sweet basil. Thai basil has a unique flavor, with hints of anise and a touch of spiciness. You can usually find it at Asian markets or well-stocked supermarkets. Additionally, you may need to purchase oyster and fish sauces, as well as sweet dark soy sauce, which are common staples in Asian cooking but might not be in your pantry.

Ingredients for Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

Rice noodles: The base of this dish, providing a soft yet toothsome texture.

Oil: Used for stir-frying the ingredients, ensuring they don't stick to the pan.

Sirloin steak: The beef component of this dish, offering a rich, meaty flavor.

Sea salt and black pepper: Used to season the steak and enhance its natural flavors.

White onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Shiitake mushroom: Brings a unique umami flavor to the dish.

Red bell pepper: Adds color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.

Garlic: Provides a punch of flavor that infuses the entire dish.

Thai basil leaves: The star of the dish, Thai basil adds a distinctive, aromatic flavor.

Soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sweet dark soy sauce: These sauces create the savory, sweet and complex flavor of the stir-fry sauce.

Chile garlic sauce: Adds a kick of heat and an extra layer of flavor.

One reader, Alonzo Pleasant says:

This Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the dish is incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender beef, aromatic basil, and savory sauce is simply irresistible. It's a must-try for anyone who loves bold and delicious Asian flavors.

Alonzo Pleasant

Techniques Required for Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

How to prepare the sauce: Whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sweet dark soy sauce, and chile garlic sauce until combined.

How to cook the noodles: Follow the package instructions to cook the rice noodles until they are al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing with a drizzle of oil if not using immediately to prevent sticking.

How to sear the beef: Heat oil in a large sauté pan or wok over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until browned on all sides. Transfer the steak to a separate plate.

How to cook the veggies: Add oil to the pan along with the onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Then, add the mushrooms, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for 3 to 5 more minutes until the veggies reach the desired tenderness.

How to combine everything together: Add the cooked noodles, sauce, steak, and Thai basil to the pan. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the sauce, then remove the pan from the heat.

How to serve: Serve the stir-fry warm, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, peanuts, garlic, and fresh lime wedges.

How To Make Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

A delightful plate of Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry to satisfy your cravings! This recipe would leave you and your family requesting for this more often.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozrice noodlesuncooked
2tbspoildivided
1¼lbsirloin steakor flank steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
fine sea salt
black pepperfreshly-cracked
1white onionsmall, peeled and thinly sliced
8ozshiitake mushroomor baby bella mushrooms, sliced
1red bell peppercored and thinly sliced
4clovesgarlicpeeled and minced
1½cupsThai basil leavesfresh

For Toppings:

green onionssliced (optional)
sesame seedstoasted (optional)
peanutschopped (optional)
garlicfried (optional)
fresh lime wedges(optional)
3tbspsoy saucelow-sodium (optional)
2tbspoyster sauce(optional)
2tbspfish sauce(optional)
1tbspsweet dark soy sauce(optional)
1chile garlic sauceor more/less to taste (optional)

Instructions

Prep the sauce. Whisk the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl or measuring cup until combined.
Prep the noodles.
Cook the noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente.
Drain and set aside until ready to use.
We’d also recommend tossing the noodles with a drizzle of oil if it will be a few minutes until you add them to the stir-fry, to prevent them from sticking together.
Sear the beef.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large sauté pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Season the steak with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
Then add the steak to the oil and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring only occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
Transfer the cooked steak to a separate (clean) plate, and return the pan to the heat.
Cook the veggies.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan along with the onion.
Sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the mushrooms, bell pepper and garlic, and sauté for 3 to 5 more minutes, or until the veggies reach your desired level of tenderness.
Combine everything together.
Immediately add the cooked noodles, sauce, steak and Thai basil to the pan.
Give everything a good toss until everything is evenly coated with the sauce, and remove the pan from the heat.
Serve warm and serve immediately, garnished with any of your desired toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 2597.84kcal
Fat: 112.89g
Saturated Fat: 35.35g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 52.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.89g
Carbohydrates: 242.62g
Fiber: 17.35g
Sugar: 18.22g
Protein: 145.83g
Cholesterol: 442.25mg
Sodium: 8067.27mg
Calcium: 432.20mg
Potassium: 3682.03mg
Iron: 15.16mg
Vitamin A: 284.70µg
Vitamin C: 182.99mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

When searing the sirloin steak, it's important not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the steak to brown properly, developing a rich flavor and texture. If the pan is too crowded, the steak may steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Also, remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding it back to the stir-fry. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, slice meat, and prepare the sauce in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a large skillet or wok to cook the entire dish in one vessel, minimizing cleanup.

Organized workspace: Arrange ingredients and utensils in an orderly manner to enhance efficiency while cooking.

Quick-cooking protein: Opt for thinly sliced beef or chicken to reduce cooking time and ensure a speedy stir-fry.

Multi-task: While the noodles are cooking, simultaneously prepare the stir-fry components to expedite the overall process.

High heat: Utilize a hot cooking surface to rapidly sear the meat and vegetables, achieving a flavorful stir-fry in minimal time.

Substitute Ingredients For Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe

rice noodles - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles can be used as a substitute for rice noodles, providing a nutty flavor and a chewy texture to the dish.
sirloin steak - Substitute with flank steak: Flank steak is a suitable substitute for sirloin steak, offering a similar texture and beefy flavor when stir-fried.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for white onions, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and similar texture when cooked.
shiitake mushroom - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms can be used as a substitute for shiitake mushrooms, offering a similar earthy flavor and meaty texture.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the stir-fry.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
Thai basil leaves - Substitute with Italian basil leaves: Italian basil leaves can be used as a substitute for Thai basil, offering a similar aromatic flavor and herbaceous notes to the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari can be used as a substitute for soy sauce, providing a gluten-free alternative with a rich, savory flavor.
oyster sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce can be used as a substitute for oyster sauce, offering a slightly sweeter and thicker consistency to the stir-fry sauce.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and anchovy paste: A combination of soy sauce and anchovy paste can be used as a substitute for fish sauce, providing a similar umami flavor to the dish.
sweet dark soy sauce - Substitute with regular dark soy sauce and brown sugar: A mixture of regular dark soy sauce and brown sugar can be used as a substitute for sweet dark soy sauce, offering a balance of sweetness and depth of flavor.
chile garlic sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for chile garlic sauce, providing a spicy and garlicky kick to the stir-fry.

Presenting Your Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use fresh herbs and edible flowers to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a variety of textures to the dish by garnishing with crispy shallots and toasted sesame seeds. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful textural contrast.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Arrange the beef, noodles, and vegetables meticulously to create a balanced and harmonious presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to stand out. This will create a visually striking presentation that is both sophisticated and inviting.
Highlight the freshness: Emphasize the freshness of the ingredients by using microgreens and citrus zest as a final garnish. This will elevate the overall presentation and provide a burst of flavor.
Consider the vessel: Choose a stylish serving dish or bowl that complements the colors of the stir-fry. The right vessel can enhance the overall presentation and create a memorable dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, pan-frying, and more.
Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with relatively high sides, used for sautéing, searing, and frying ingredients.
Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot items, such as the steak, while cooking.
Spatula: A flat cooking utensil used for flipping and spreading ingredients in the pan.
Measuring cup/spoons: Used for accurately measuring out liquid and dry ingredients for the sauce.
Whisk: Used for combining and mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
Colander: Used for draining the cooked rice noodles.
Grater: Used for grating fresh garlic or ginger for the stir-fry.
Plates and bowls: Used for serving and holding the prepared dish and its components.
Stove: Used for cooking the stir-fry over heat.
Cooking utensils: Including spoons, forks, and chopsticks for stirring and serving the dish.

Storing and Freezing Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

To store leftover thai basil beef noodle stir-fry, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen up the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry for up to 2-3 months. To do this, transfer the cooled stir-fry to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
To thaw, place the frozen stir-fry in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours until completely thawed. Reheat as mentioned above, adding a bit of liquid to help revive the noodles and sauce.
Note: The texture of the rice noodles may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer than when freshly cooked. The flavors, however, should remain delicious.
If you plan on freezing the dish, you might consider slightly undercooking the vegetables to help them retain some crunch after thawing and reheating.
To maintain the best quality, consume the frozen stir-fry within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

To reheat leftover thai basil beef noodle stir-fry, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the noodles from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the stir-fry is heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Another option is to reheat the stir-fry in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to help rehydrate the noodles and prevent sticking. Stir the dish frequently until it is heated through and the noodles are tender. This method allows you to adjust the seasoning if needed and can help restore the texture of the vegetables and beef.
If you have access to a steamer, you can also reheat the thai basil beef noodle stir-fry by placing it in a heat-safe dish and steaming it for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle reheating method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to consume the reheated stir-fry promptly to ensure food safety and optimal taste. If desired, garnish the reheated dish with fresh thai basil leaves, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up the flavors before serving.

Random Fact About Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

The Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry recipe is a popular dish in Thai cuisine. It is known for its bold flavors and aromatic herbs, such as Thai basil, which adds a unique and fresh taste to the dish.

Is Making Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

This Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The use of affordable ingredients such as rice noodles, sirloin steak, and vegetables makes it a cost-effective choice for households. The dish's versatility and ability to stretch ingredients make it a budget-friendly option. With an approximate cost of $20, this recipe can yield a satisfying meal for a family of four. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 9/10 for its affordability, flavor, and ease of preparation.

Is This Thai Basil Beef Noodle Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:

The recipe includes a good balance of protein (sirloin steak), vegetables (onion, mushrooms, bell pepper), and carbohydrates (rice noodles).
Thai basil adds a fresh, aromatic flavor and is known for its potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.
The sauce contains a high amount of sodium from the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce, which could be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
The recipe calls for oil for cooking, which adds extra calories and fat to the dish.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce, or by replacing some of these ingredients with fresh herbs, spices, or lime juice for flavor.
Use a leaner cut of beef, such as flank steak or tenderloin, to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Increase the variety and amount of vegetables in the stir-fry, such as adding carrots, broccoli, or bok choy, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
Opt for a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, and use it sparingly to minimize added calories and fat.
Consider using whole grain rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a more nutrient-dense alternative to regular rice noodles.

Editor's Opinion on This Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe

This Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender sirloin steak pairs perfectly with the aromatic Thai basil and the umami-rich sauce. The addition of shiitake mushrooms and red bell pepper adds a wonderful depth to the dish, while the rice noodles provide a satisfying base. The toppings of green onions, sesame seeds, and peanuts add a delightful crunch, and the fresh lime wedges bring a burst of citrusy brightness. Overall, this dish is a harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and fresh flavors that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Butter: Steamed broccoli with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfect for pairing with the savory Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Juicy pineapple chunks grilled to perfection, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the bold flavors of the stir-fry.

Coconut Lemongrass Soup: A creamy and aromatic coconut lemongrass soup, providing a light and refreshing complement to the rich and savory noodle stir-fry.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

Spicy Szechuan Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy Szechuan beef stir-fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Coconut Curry Noodle Soup: This creamy and aromatic coconut curry noodle soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich coconut curry broth that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet and tropical dessert is a classic Thai dish that features sticky rice topped with ripe mango slices and drizzled with a sweet coconut sauce for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

Appetizers:

Crispy Calamari: For a delightful start to your meal, consider serving up some crispy calamari. This classic appetizer features tender rings of calamari that have been lightly breaded and fried to perfection. The crispy texture pairs perfectly with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Another fantastic appetizer option is to prepare some savory stuffed mushrooms. These bite-sized delights are filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. The rich and creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making for a truly irresistible appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, topped with a sweet strawberry glaze and fresh sliced strawberries. A classic dessert that never disappoints.

Why trust this Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe:

This recipe guarantees an authentic Thai basil beef noodle stir-fry experience, using high-quality ingredients such as tender sirloin steak, fragrant Thai basil leaves, and savory oyster sauce. The combination of soy sauce, fish sauce, and sweet dark soy sauce adds depth of flavor, while the addition of shiitake mushrooms, red bell pepper, and garlic ensures a delightful medley of textures. Topped with green onions, sesame seeds, and peanuts, this dish promises a burst of authentic Thai flavors that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.

If you enjoyed this Thai Basil Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe, let's continue the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Feel free to share your own twists on this dish or ask any questions you might have!

FAQ:

What type of noodles can I use for this recipe?

You can use rice noodles, but if you prefer a different type, feel free to use your favorite noodles such as egg noodles or even udon noodles.

Can I substitute the sirloin steak with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use chicken, pork, or tofu as a substitute for the sirloin steak. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

I can't find Thai basil, what can I use instead?

If you can't find Thai basil, you can use Italian basil as a substitute. While the flavor may be slightly different, it will still complement the dish nicely.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat and using tofu or a variety of colorful vegetables as the main ingredients.

How spicy is this dish with the chile garlic sauce?

The spiciness level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with a small amount of chile garlic sauce and adjust to your desired level of heat. You can always add more, but you can't take it out once it's mixed in!