Basil Tofu Pad Krapow (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Tofu for Baking
01 -
16 oz organic, extra-dense tofu (high-protein works well)
02 -
2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 -
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
04 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Basil Sauce
05 -
2 tablespoons of oil (avocado or any cooking oil of your choice)
06 -
6 minced garlic cloves
07 -
1/3 cup diced shallots or red onion (choose your favorite)
08 -
4 Thai red chili peppers (adjust quantity if it's too hot)
09 -
1 1/2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves
10 -
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
11 -
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
12 -
1 tablespoon raw cane or palm sugar
13 -
2 tablespoons vegetarian oyster sauce
14 -
2 tablespoons water
# Instructions:
01 -
Squeeze out as much water as you can from the tofu block by patting it dry. Break it into rough, small pieces without making it mushy.
02 -
Mix the broken tofu with salt, cornstarch, and pepper. Toss it gently so everything's coated nicely.
03 -
Spread the tofu evenly on a greased baking tray, give it a light spray of oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes. Stir it every now and then so it crisps up evenly, then set it aside.
04 -
Skip the oven and fry the tofu pieces in an oiled pan. Stir until golden brown with a firm texture—this removes any extra water. Put it aside to cool.
05 -
In a large, heated wok and with a bit of oil, toss in minced garlic, chili, and shallots. Stir it for a couple of minutes, just enough to make it smell amazing—not burnt.
06 -
Mix the cooked tofu into the wok alongside the aromatic mix. Combine everything well and let it cook on medium heat for a minute or two.
07 -
Mix all the sauces—soy, vegetarian oyster—and sugar in a separate bowl. Pour this over the tofu. Swirl 2 tablespoons of water in the empty sauce bowl and add it too. Stir everything up to coat the tofu.
08 -
After the tofu soaks up the sauce, throw in the Thai basil (tear or chop it, however you like). It just needs 1-2 minutes to wilt and infuse its flavor.
09 -
Dish up the finished dish over warm rice. For something more traditional, add a fried egg on top. Serve everything while it's still steaming hot.
# Notes:
01 -
Holy basil (kaprow) is the go-to herb in Thailand, but sweet basil is what most folks use instead in the west.
02 -
Skip an electric tool and use a mortar and pestle to mash the garlic and chilies together. It gives a deeper flavor.