Thai cuisine has a special place in my heart, especially when it comes to dishes with ground pork. The fresh herbs, the spices’ little kick, and the savory depth always leave me wanting more. From Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry to Creamy Thai Pork Curry, these recipes are a joy to recreate at home. Each dish captures that restaurant-quality flavor we all love. Are you ready to bring these amazing flavors to your kitchen?
Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry

Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry, also known as Pad Kra Pao Moo, is a quintessential dish in Thai cuisine that bursts with aromatic flavors and vibrant colors. This dish features ground pork stir-fried with fragrant Thai basil, garlic, and chilies, creating a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and savory tastes.
The use of fresh ingredients and quick cooking methods allows the natural flavors to shine, making it a favorite among both locals and international food lovers alike. The dish is typically served over jasmine rice and topped with a crispy fried egg, adding a delightful contrast in texture.
It’s an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal, whether you’re preparing a family dinner or impressing guests with your culinary skills. This recipe provides the perfect balance of authentic Thai flavors, guaranteeing a delicious and fulfilling dining experience for 4-6 people.
Ingredients for 4-6 servings:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 Thai bird chilies, chopped
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- Fried eggs, for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Aromatics: Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped Thai bird chilies, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden.
- Cook the Pork: Add the ground pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir-fry the pork for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and starts to brown.
- Season the Dish: Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well to make certain the pork is evenly coated with the sauces. If using, add the sliced red bell pepper and continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the pepper is tender-crisp.
- Add the Basil: Turn off the heat and add the Thai basil leaves to the skillet. Toss everything together until the basil is wilted and evenly distributed throughout the pork.
- Serve: Serve the Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry over a bed of cooked jasmine rice. Top with a fried egg if desired, to add richness and a delightful contrast in texture.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, make sure to use fresh Thai basil, which has a unique aroma that’s essential to this dish. Adjust the number of Thai bird chilies according to your spice preference; they can be quite hot.
If you can’t find Thai basil, you can substitute with sweet basil, but the flavor will be slightly different. To save time, you can prepare the sauces and chop the ingredients in advance. This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, while the flavors are fresh and vibrant.
Spicy Pork Larb Salad

Spicy Pork Larb Salad is a classic Thai dish that combines the aromatic flavors of Southeast Asia with ground pork to create a vibrant and invigorating salad. This dish is characterized by its balance of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors, making it an exciting addition to any meal.
The dish is typically served with crisp lettuce leaves or cabbage, allowing you to enjoy it as a light, healthy wrap or as a stand-alone salad.
This recipe for Spicy Pork Larb Salad serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique dish to serve at your next gathering. The ground pork is cooked with traditional Thai ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, and chili, providing a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh herbs and vegetables.
The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing with its colorful presentation.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder
- 1-2 tablespoons Thai chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 cup shallots, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Lettuce leaves or cabbage leaves for serving
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Season the Pork: Reduce the heat to medium and add the fish sauce, lime juice, toasted rice powder, Thai chili powder, and sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the pork is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Combine with Aromatics: Add the shallots to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pork mixture with the mint, cilantro, Thai basil, green onions, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve: Arrange the lettuce or cabbage leaves on a serving platter. Spoon the pork larb salad onto the leaves and serve immediately. Encourage diners to wrap the salad in the leaves for easy eating.
Extra Tips:
For an authentic touch, try making your own toasted rice powder by dry-roasting uncooked sticky rice in a pan until golden brown, then grinding it to a fine powder with a mortar and pestle.
Adjust the level of chili powder based on your spice preference, and remember that fresh herbs are key to achieving the vibrant flavor profile of this dish. If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of chili powder or substitute with a milder chili variety.
Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and vegetables to make this dish your own!
Thai Basil Pork With Rice (Pad Krapow)

Thai Basil Pork with Rice, also known as Pad Krapow, is a fragrant and flavorful dish that’s a staple in Thai cuisine. This dish combines the aromatic qualities of fresh Thai basil with the savory taste of ground pork, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The dish is typically served with steamed jasmine rice, which complements the rich flavors of the pork and the spicy, garlicky sauce that coats it.
The key to a successful Pad Krapow lies in its balance of flavors—sweet, salty, spicy, and savory. Fresh Thai basil adds a unique aroma and a peppery taste that elevates the dish. Additionally, the use of fresh chilies and garlic gives it a spicy kick that can be adjusted according to your preference. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground pork
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-6 bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for color)
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice
- Fried eggs (optional, one per serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Mince the garlic and slice the bird’s eye chilies. If using, slice the red bell pepper. Wash and dry the Thai basil leaves.
- Cook the Pork: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced chilies, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and starting to turn golden.
- Add the Pork: Add the ground pork to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Stir-fry the pork until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Dish: Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar to the pork. Stir well to combine the sauces with the pork. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Vegetables: If using, add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the pepper is slightly tender but still crisp.
- Incorporate Basil Leaves: Turn off the heat and add the Thai basil leaves to the skillet. Stir them into the pork until they’re wilted and evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Serve: Serve the Thai basil pork hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. For an authentic touch, top each serving with a fried egg if desired.
Extra Tips:
When cooking Thai Basil Pork with Rice, it’s important to work quickly, especially when stir-frying. High heat guarantees that the pork browns nicely and the flavors are locked in.
If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce the number of bird’s eye chilies or replace them with a less spicy variety. Remember that fresh Thai basil is essential for authentic flavor, so try to use it if possible. If unavailable, regular basil can be substituted, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Finally, using a well-seasoned wok or skillet will enhance the overall cooking process and result in a more flavorful dish.
Thai Pork Meatballs

Thai Pork Meatballs are a delightful fusion of savory, spicy, and aromatic flavors, making them a perfect appetizer or main course. These meatballs are crafted with ground pork seasoned with traditional Thai ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, and fresh herbs, which give them a vibrant taste that’s both comforting and exotic.
Whether served with a sweet chili sauce or nestled into a bowl of noodles, these meatballs offer a delicious and satisfying meal experience. The preparation of these Thai Pork Meatballs is straightforward, yet aims to transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Thailand.
By combining the right balance of seasonings with the tender ground pork, these meatballs aren’t only rich in flavor but also incredibly juicy. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, offering a taste of Thailand in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup Thai basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix well to guarantee the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the pork.
- Add Binding Ingredients: To the seasoned pork, add the breadcrumbs and egg. These ingredients will help bind the meatballs together so they hold their shape during cooking. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add the Thai basil, cilantro, and optional red chili into the pork mixture. Stir until the herbs are evenly mixed in. These fresh ingredients will infuse the meatballs with aromatic flavors characteristic of Thai cuisine.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray or plate as you shape them.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm as an appetizer with sweet chili sauce or as a main dish with rice or noodles.
Extra Tips:
For best results, use fresh ground pork with a bit of fat content to guarantee the meatballs remain moist and juicy. Adjust the level of chili according to your spice preference—omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
When forming the meatballs, wet your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking. If preferred, these meatballs can also be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
Make Aromatic Thai Pork Satay Skewers

Aromatic Thai Pork Satay Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. This dish combines the fragrant essence of lemongrass, garlic, and ginger with the savory taste of ground pork, marinated to perfection. The skewers are then grilled to create a beautiful char and smoky flavor, making it an excellent appetizer or main course.
Serve these skewers with a side of peanut sauce and a crisp cucumber salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
The key to achieving the authentic taste of Thai Pork Satay lies in the marinade, which features a blend of herbs and spices that infuse the meat with an irresistible aroma. The inclusion of coconut milk adds a creamy texture, while the fish sauce and lime juice provide a balance of salty and tangy flavors.
These skewers aren’t only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a casual dinner party or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients for 4-6 servings:
- 1.5 lbs ground pork
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped lemongrass, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Marinate the Pork: Add the ground pork to the marinade, guaranteeing it’s fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the pork to absorb all the flavors. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Form the Skewers: Once marinated, take a handful of the pork mixture and mold it around the skewers, pressing firmly to ensure it adheres well. Repeat until all the pork has been used.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the pork is cooked through and has a nice char.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with a side of peanut sauce and cucumber salad.
Extra Tips:
When preparing the skewers, make sure the pork mixture is tightly packed around the skewers to prevent it from falling apart during grilling.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chopped chilies to the marinade. Soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before use will prevent them from burning on the grill.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade.
Thai Pork Lettuce Wraps

Thai Pork Lettuce Wraps are a delicious and aromatic dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine to your table. This dish combines the savory taste of ground pork with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. The result is a revitalizing, light, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick meal, these lettuce wraps are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
The key to this dish is its balance of flavors and textures. The ground pork is cooked to perfection with a blend of garlic, ginger, and chili, providing a flavorful base. It’s then complemented by the freshness of mint, cilantro, and the crunch of peanuts. The lettuce leaves offer a revitalizing contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.
This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional for spice)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1 head butter or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Mixture: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground pork, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Meat: Once the pork is cooked, add the chopped red chili (if using), fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pork is evenly coated with the sauce. Pour in the lime juice and chicken broth, stirring again. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and mint. This will add freshness and a burst of flavor to the pork mixture.
- Prepare Lettuce Wraps: Carefully wash and dry the lettuce leaves. Arrange them on a serving platter.
- Assemble the Wraps: Spoon the pork mixture into each lettuce leaf, topping with chopped peanuts for added crunch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the wraps immediately, allowing everyone to pick up a wrap and enjoy.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, use fresh herbs and high-quality fish sauce. Adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer chilies based on your preference. If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can omit the chili altogether.
For added texture, consider adding shredded carrots or sliced water chestnuts to the pork mixture. To make the dish more filling, serve it alongside a bowl of steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy your Thai Pork Lettuce Wraps with a side of sweet chili sauce or extra lime wedges for a zesty kick!
Creamy Thai Pork Curry

Creamy Thai Pork Curry is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ground pork with the aromatic spices and herbs characteristic of Thai cuisine. The creamy coconut milk base envelops the pork, bringing out its savory notes while the curry paste infuses the dish with a vibrant, spicy kick.
This dish is perfect for a comforting family meal or a dinner party, offering a perfect balance of heat and sweetness with a touch of acidity from lime juice, making it a truly satisfying experience.
This dish isn’t only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners. The use of fresh ingredients such as kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil, and lemongrass guarantees that the dish is bursting with authentic flavors.
The ground pork absorbs all the spices and the creamy coconut sauce, creating a mouthwatering curry that pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or flatbreads. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for sharing.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh Thai basil leaves for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Cook the Pork: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground pork to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pork is browned and cooked through, breaking up any lumps with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Curry Paste: Stir in the Thai red curry paste, confirming that the pork is well-coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the paste to release its flavors.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, chicken stock, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine, then add the torn kaffir lime leaves.
- Simmer the Curry: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add the sliced red bell pepper and baby spinach to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Finish with Lime: Stir in the lime juice, and season the curry with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the kaffir lime leaves before serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the curry into bowls and garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves. Serve hot with jasmine rice or flatbreads.
Extra Tips:
For a more aromatic experience, consider adding a few slices of lemongrass during the cooking process and removing them before serving. If you prefer a spicier curry, increase the amount of Thai red curry paste or add a couple of sliced Thai chilies for extra heat.
To enhance the dish’s presentation, consider serving it with a side of fresh lime wedges and some crushed peanuts for added texture. Adjust the thickness of the curry by adding more coconut milk or chicken stock as needed.
Pork and Lime Noodle Salad

Pork and Lime Noodle Salad is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of Thai ground pork with the freshness of lime and the lightness of rice noodles. This dish is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner, offering a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and spicy elements.
The ground pork is cooked with fragrant garlic and ginger, then tossed with rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
This recipe serves 4-6 people and showcases the versatility of ground pork in a Thai-inspired dish. The balance of flavors is key in this salad, with the lime dressing providing a revitalizing counterpoint to the savory pork. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint add an aromatic touch, while chopped peanuts offer a delightful crunch.
This Pork and Lime Noodle Salad isn’t only delicious but also visually appealing with its mix of vibrant colors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 8 ounces rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Cook the Pork: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, reduce the heat to medium and add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you like it spicy, add the red chili flakes at this stage.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice noodles, sliced red bell pepper, julienned cucumber, cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. Add the cooked pork mixture and toss everything together.
- Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the noodle salad and toss to make sure everything is well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with chopped peanuts for added crunch. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to herbs like cilantro and mint, as they greatly enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor.
If you prefer a milder taste, you can adjust the amount of fish sauce and soy sauce according to your preference. Be sure to taste the salad before serving, and adjust the lime juice and seasoning to your liking.
This dish can also be served cold, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings.
Thai Pork and Peanut Stir-Fry

Thai Pork and Peanut Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground pork with the nutty essence of peanuts, all enhanced by traditional Thai seasonings. This dish is perfect for those who love a quick yet flavorful meal, as the stir-fry method allows the ingredients to cook rapidly while maintaining their distinct tastes and textures.
With a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy elements, this stir-fry is sure to tantalize your taste buds and make for a memorable dining experience. This aromatic dish is perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. It serves 4-6 people, making it an excellent choice for sharing.
The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the rich umami of soy sauce and fish sauce create a harmonious blend that perfectly complements the ground pork and peanuts. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles for a complete meal, and enjoy the vibrant flavors that this Thai Pork and Peanut Stir-Fry has to offer.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing them as listed. Thinly slice the onion and red bell pepper, mince the garlic, and chop the green onions.
- Cook the Pork: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Sauces: Add the red bell pepper to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Mix well to combine.
- Combine Pork and Peanuts: Return the cooked pork to the pan, along with the roasted peanuts. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate Basil and Green Onions: Add the fresh Thai basil leaves and chopped green onions to the pan. Stir-fry for another minute until the basil is wilted and everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with lime wedges. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles.
Extra Tips:
When cooking Thai Pork and Peanut Stir-Fry, make sure to adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by controlling the amount of chili flakes. If you like your dish spicier, you can add more chili flakes or even fresh Thai bird chilies for extra heat.
Additionally, verify you use fresh Thai basil, as it adds a unique flavor that complements the dish perfectly. If fresh Thai basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with regular basil, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Finally, for an added crunch, consider topping the dish with chopped roasted peanuts just before serving.
Crispy Thai Pork Spring Rolls

Crispy Thai Pork Spring Rolls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for an appetizer or a light meal. The aromatic Thai ground pork filling is seasoned with a harmonious blend of spices and herbs, delivering a savory and slightly sweet taste. Wrapped in crispy spring roll wrappers and fried to golden perfection, these spring rolls are bound to impress your family and guests with their deliciousness.
The filling of these spring rolls is made with ground pork, enhanced with traditional Thai ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and fish sauce, providing an authentic taste of Thailand. The rolls are also packed with fresh vegetables like carrots and cabbage, which add a revitalizing crunch. Serve them with a side of sweet chili sauce or a tangy dipping sauce for an extra kick of flavor. This recipe makes enough to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 20 spring roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
- Sweet chili sauce for dipping
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground pork to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season the Filling: Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Mix well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pork mixture with the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, chopped green onions, and cilantro. Mix thoroughly to make certain even distribution of the ingredients.
- Assemble the Spring Rolls: Lay out a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the pork filling near the bottom edge of the wrapper. Fold the bottom over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly. Seal the edge with a bit of water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Fry the Spring Rolls: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the spring rolls, a few at a time, without overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Arrange the crispy spring rolls on a serving platter. Serve immediately with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Extra Tips:
When making spring rolls, make certain that the filling isn’t too moist, as excess moisture can make the wrappers soggy and difficult to fry. If needed, you can gently squeeze the vegetables before mixing them with the pork to remove any excess liquid.
Also, when sealing the spring rolls, make sure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent oil from seeping in during frying, which would make them greasy. Finally, make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying; too hot and the rolls will burn, too cold and they’ll absorb excess oil.

