Thai basil sauce is a bold, aromatic blend that captures the heart of Thai street food. Infused with the sharp bite of garlic and chilies, the salty-rich umami of fish sauce, and the fresh, almost licorice-like aroma of basil, it delivers a balance of savory, spicy, and herbaceous flavors. While the exact origins are hard to trace, the sauce is inspired by the flavors found in Thai stir-fries and noodle dishes, where fresh herbs are often tossed in at the last second to release their full aroma.
This sauce is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over rice or noodles, stir it into a wok with ground chicken or pork, or spoon it over grilled tofu or shrimp for an instant flavor boost. It works beautifully with quick-cooked vegetables too, bringing them to life with just a few spoonfuls. Whether used as a marinade, stir-fry base, or finishing sauce, Thai basil sauce adds a punch of flavor that pairs perfectly with everything from jasmine rice to rice noodles, and proteins like chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu. It’s a fast-track way to make any dish taste like it came from a Thai kitchen.
Thai Basil Sauce
Description
This sauce works well with chicken, pork, and beef.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Mix fish sauce, sugar, chicken stock, and chili sauce in a small bowl
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In a wok or sauté pan, sauté garlic and jalapeños for 2–3 minutes.
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Add basil and scallions and sauté for 1 more minute.
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Mix cornstarch and cold water. Do this little at a time until the consistency is like heavy cream. Gently stir this mixture into the sauce, little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Discard any remaining cornstarch mixture.
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When the desired consistency is reached, simmer the mixture over low heat for 3-4 more minutes. This will cook out any taste or texture from the cornstarch.
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Serve alone over rice or with chicken, beef, or pork.
Note
This Thai basil sauce is a flavorful blend of fresh basil, garlic, chilies, and a touch of sweetness. It has a medium heat from jalapeños and a rich umami depth from fish sauce. It's a simple way to add authentic Thai taste to chicken, beef, or pork. Serve it with rice or noodles for a balanced, satisfying meal that comes together quickly. This sauce is easy to make and works well for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.
If you can't find Thai basil, sweet basil works well too. If you want to tone down the heat, try using poblano peppers instead of jalapeños.
Buen provecho!
