What Can You Make With Thai Basil

You can make so many delicious dishes with Thai basil, from stir-fries to salads, and even cocktails and desserts.

It’s one of those magical herbs that brings a unique anise-like flavor and a sweet, peppery kick to the table.

If you’ve ever bought a bunch at the market and wondered what to do with it beyond the usual pho, you’re in the right place.

The possibilities for what you can make with Thai basil are seriously endless, and I’m here to walk you through some of the very best.

In this post, we’ll cover the classic dishes you can make with Thai basil, some surprising new ways to use it, and how to store it so you can keep enjoying it.

Let’s jump right in.

Classic Dishes You Can Make With Thai Basil

The most famous and beloved ways to use Thai basil are in the stir-fries of Southeast Asia.

The herb’s ability to hold its flavor and texture at high heat makes it a star in the kitchen.

Here are some of the top classic recipes you can make with Thai basil.

1. Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai)

This is arguably the most famous dish you can make with Thai basil, and for good reason.

It’s a fiery, fragrant stir-fry that comes together in minutes.

You’ll need ground chicken, garlic, chilies, and a savory sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a little sugar.

The magic happens when you toss in a huge handful of Thai basil leaves at the very end.

They wilt slightly but keep their shape, releasing that incredible, almost minty aroma that defines the dish.

Serve it over jasmine rice with a crispy fried egg on top for the ultimate comfort meal.

This is a fantastic example of what you can make with Thai basil that’s both fast and authentic.

2. Thai Basil Beef (Pad Krapow Nua)

Just like the chicken version, you can easily swap the protein and make a delicious Thai basil beef.

Sliced beef sirloin or flank steak works perfectly here.

The key is to get your wok or pan screaming hot so the beef sears quickly and stays tender.

Then, you add your aromatics like garlic and shallots, followed by the sauce and finally the Thai basil.

The beef’s rich flavor pairs beautifully with the herb’s peppery notes.

This is one of those dishes you can make with Thai basil that will make you never want takeout again.

3. Thai Green Curry (Gaeng Kiaw Wan)

While Thai basil isn’t traditional in every green curry recipe, it’s a phenomenal addition that elevates the whole pot.

The sweet, licorice-like flavor of the herb cuts through the rich, creamy coconut milk and spicy green curry paste.

You can make this dish with chicken, pork, or just a load of vegetables like eggplant and bamboo shoots.

Add the Thai basil leaves in the last few minutes of simmering.

They’ll release their essential oils into the broth, creating a complex, layered flavor profile.

You know you’ve made a great curry when you can truly taste the freshness from the Thai basil you make the dish with.

4. Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Salad (Gỏi Gà)

This is a lighter, fresh option that shows off another side of what you can make with Thai basil.

This salad isn’t cooked; instead, it relies on the raw, vibrant power of the herbs.

Shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, and a tangy fish sauce dressing are tossed together with a generous amount of Thai basil.

The herb’s crisp texture and bold flavor stand up perfectly to the crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing.

It’s a refreshing, healthy meal that’s perfect for a warm day.

5. Stir-Fried Morning Glory with Thai Basil

For a simple vegetable side, you can stir-fry morning glory (or water spinach) with garlic, chilies, and a splash of soy sauce.

Adding a bunch of Thai basil to the wok in the final seconds is a game-changer.

The leaves add a fragrant, spicy punch that makes this simple dish unforgettable.

This is a great way to use up a large amount of Thai basil if you have a surplus from your garden.

More Surprising Ways to Use Thai Basil

Now, let’s step outside the wok and explore some creative and modern things you can make with Thai basil.

These ideas show how versatile this herb really is.

1. Thai Basil Infused Cocktails

You can make a spectacular simple syrup by simmering sugar, water, and a handful of Thai basil leaves together.

This fragrant syrup is the perfect base for a refreshing mojito or a gin and tonic.

Just muddle a few fresh Thai basil leaves in the bottom of your glass for an extra aromatic kick.

The herb’s anise notes pair wonderfully with citrus flavors like lime and lemon.

This is a sophisticated and surprising way to use Thai basil that will impress all your friends.

2. Thai Basil Pesto

Forget the traditional basil for a minute, because Thai basil makes a stunning pesto.

Blend it with garlic, toasted cashews or macadamia nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

The result is a pesto with a unique, spicy, and sweet flavor that’s amazing on pasta.

You can also spread it on sandwiches or use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish.

This is a quick and creative answer to what you can make with Thai basil that adds a twist to a classic.

3. Thai Basil and Mango Salad

This is a ridiculously simple and delicious salad that takes minutes to put together.

Toss ripe mango slices or cubes with fresh Thai basil leaves, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili flakes and a little salt.

The sweet mango, the peppery Thai basil, and the bright lime all complement each other beautifully.

You can make a bigger version of this salad with shredded green papaya for a more savory take.

It’s a perfect side dish for any grilled meat or fish.

4. Thai Basil Fried Rice

To make the best fried rice, you can add Thai basil at the end of cooking.

This takes a simple fried rice from good to extraordinary.

Stir in a generous handful of Thai basil leaves right after you turn off the heat.

The residual heat will wilt them just enough to release their incredible fragrance.

The flavor will perfume every single grain of rice, making it a standout dish.

5. Thai Basil and Coconut Ice Cream

If you have an ice cream maker, you absolutely have to try this.

Steep a bunch of Thai basil leaves in your coconut milk and cream base before churning.

You’ll be left with an ice cream that has a surprisingly delicate and refreshing herbal flavor.

The anise notes of the Thai basil pair beautifully with the sweetness of the coconut.

What you can make with Thai basil even extends to a unique and elegant dessert like this.

How to Store Thai Basil for Maximum Freshness

To get the most out of the dishes you can make with Thai basil, you need to store it correctly.

The most important thing is to keep it dry.

Moisture makes the delicate leaves turn black and slimy quickly.

Here’s the best method:

The Stem-and-Jar Method

Treat your Thai basil like a bouquet of flowers.

Trim the ends of the stems and place the bunch in a jar or glass with about an inch of water.

Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band.

Store the jar in the refrigerator.

This should keep your Thai basil fresh and vibrant for up to two weeks, so you’ll have plenty of time to make all these recipes.

So, What Can You Make With Thai Basil?

You can make so many different and delicious things with Thai basil, it’s almost overwhelming.

This gorgeous herb shines in classic Asian stir-fries to elevate them with its unique aroma.

You can make refreshing salads, complex curries, and even use it to create amazing cocktails and desserts.

From Thai basil chicken to Thai basil pesto and even coconut ice cream, the possibilities are truly endless.

I hope this post has shown you all the tasty ways you can use Thai basil in your own kitchen.

So go ahead, grab a bunch on your next grocery run and start experimenting with all the wonderful things you can make with Thai basil.