An introduction to creating popular Thai street food dishes at home using simple techniques and readily available ingredients. Focus on balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
Easy Thai Street Food: Cook at Home!
An introduction to creating popular Thai street food dishes at home using simple techniques and readily available ingredients. Focus on balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small shallot sliced
- 1 cup protein of choice e.g.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables e.g.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes optional
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves or cilantro
Instructions
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and shallots; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and stir-fry until almost cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, tossing everything to combine and dissolve the sugar.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil or cilantro leaves.
- Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Notes
The key to authentic Thai flavors is balancing the four main tastes: sweet (sugar), sour (lime/tamarind), salty (fish sauce), and spicy (chili). Adjust to your preference. Don't be afraid to experiment with different proteins or vegetables. Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil elevate the dish.
