Thai Stir-Fried Squid with Basil Recipe (Pla Muek Pad Kra Pao)｜Authentic Thai Seafood at Home
Learn how to make Thai Stir-Fried Squid with Basil (Pla Muek Pad Kra Pao) at home! Tender squid stir-fried with garlic, chili, and fragrant Thai basil creates a quick, flavorful, and authentic Thai seafood dish perfect with rice.
Ingredients (2–3 servings)
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300–400g fresh squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 tbsp oyster sauce
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1 tsp fish sauce
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1 tsp soy sauce
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1 tsp sugar (or palm sugar)
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50 ml water or stock
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1 cup fresh Thai holy basil leaves (or regular basil if unavailable)
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Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the squid
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Clean the squid and slice into rings. Pat dry to remove excess moisture to prevent rubbery texture when cooking.
2. Stir-fry aromatics
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Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
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Add garlic and chilies, stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the squid
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Add the squid rings and stir-fry quickly for 1–2 minutes. Squid cooks very fast, so avoid overcooking.
4. Season the dish
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Add oyster sauce, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir well to coat the squid evenly.
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Cook another 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Add basil
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Turn off the heat and toss in fresh basil leaves. Mix briefly until wilted.
6. Serve
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Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice.
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Optional: Add lime wedges for a fresh, tangy kick.
Tips for Perfect Thai Stir-Fried Squid with Basil
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Quick cooking is key — 2–3 minutes is enough to avoid tough squid.
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Use fresh Thai holy basil for the authentic aromatic flavor.
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Adjust chili and sugar to balance heat and sweetness to your preference.
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Serve hot for the best taste and texture.
