A flavorful Thai fried rice dish with prawns, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2cupsBasmati or Jasmine Rice
- 8pieceVennamei Prawns (shelled & deveined, tail on)
- 1cupSpring Onions (diagonally sliced)
- 1/2cupShiitake Mushrooms (sliced)
- 4pieceKaffir Lime Leaves
- 1tspRed Chillies (deseeded & thinly sliced)
- 1tbspGinger (finely grated)
- 1tspGarlic
- 1tspLemongrass (thinly sliced)
- 1/2cupLight Soy Sauce
- 2tbspThai Basil (or half mint, half basil) (chiffonade)
- 2tbspCoriander Leaves
- 3tbspVegetable Oil
How to make Khao Pad (Thai Fried Rice)
Cooking the Rice
Place the basmati or jasmine rice in a medium pot, cover with water, and wash by rubbing the rice between your hands until the water turns clear. This process ensures fluffier rice. Once cleaned, pour off the starchy water and replace with clean water. Bring the rice to a boil, then simmer until just cooked but still a little al dente. Strain the rice, rinse, and drain.
Cooking the Fried Rice
Heat a wok or large pan to medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
Add the lemongrass, red chili, lime leaves, and spring onions. Sauté for 1 minute, then add the shiitake mushrooms. Sauté for another minute.
Add the light soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and cooked rice. Sautee for 2 min, then add the Vennamei prawns. Turn off the heat and cover with a lid. The prawns will cook in the steam.
Taste the rice and add more chili and soy sauce if needed. Once the prawns are cooked through, transfer the rice into a serving dish and garnish with coriander leaves, mint & basil.
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the rice is slightly al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during frying.
Adjust the amount of chili and soy sauce according to your taste preference.
FAQS
How do I make the perfect Thai fried rice with prawns?
To make the perfect Thai fried rice with prawns, start by washing your Basmati or Jasmine rice until the water runs clear. This helps achieve fluffier rice. Cook the rice until just al dente, then sauté aromatics like lemongrass, garlic, and ginger in vegetable oil before adding the cooked rice and prawns. Finish by steaming the prawns in the residual heat for a tender texture.
What are some good substitutions for ingredients in Khao Pad?
If you don't have Vennamei prawns, you can substitute them with chicken, tofu, or any other seafood like shrimp or scallops. For the vegetables, feel free to use bell peppers, peas, or carrots instead of shiitake mushrooms. If you can't find kaffir lime leaves, you can use lime zest for a similar flavor.
Can I make Khao Pad vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Khao Pad vegan or vegetarian by omitting the prawns and using tofu or tempeh as a protein source. Additionally, ensure that the soy sauce you use is vegan-friendly, and you can add more vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas for added flavor and nutrition.
How should I store leftover Thai fried rice?
To store leftover Khao Pad, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help steam the rice and prevent it from drying out.
What dishes pair well with Thai fried rice?
Khao Pad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside Thai green curry, a fresh papaya salad, or spring rolls for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with a side of sweet chili sauce for an extra kick!
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Anna Middleton
(@chefanna)
I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I am self-taught and have an extreme passion for various international cuisines. I have fallen in love with teaching others the skills that I have learnt, inspiring them through creative cooking. I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I...
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