Recipe Note
Serve hot over jasmine rice, brown rice or Thai Riceberry. Enjoy your taste of Thai street food at home!
FAQ: Quick & Easy Stir-Fry Shrimp with Holy Basil and Garlic
Q1: How long does it take to make this stir-fry shrimp dish?
This recipe takes around 12–15 minutes total — about 5 minutes of prep time and 7–10 minutes of cooking.
Q2: Can I use any type of shrimp?
Yes! You can use fresh or previously cooked shrimp. If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking. Fresh shrimp typically give the best texture in Thai-style stir-fries.
Q3: What is holy basil, and can I substitute it?
Holy basil (also known as Thai holy basil) has a slightly spicy, peppery flavor commonly found in Thai street food. If you can’t find it locally in the U.S., you can substitute with regular Thai basil or sweet basil, though the flavor will be milder.
Q4: What sauce is used, and what flavor does it add?
The dish features Watcharee’s Thai Basil & Garlic Sauce, which delivers bold garlic, sweet basil, and savory Thai flavors — making it easy to recreate authentic Thai stir-fry at home without extra prep time.
Q5: What vegetables go well in this recipe?
The recipe includes bell peppers, but you can also add veggies like snap peas, baby corn, zucchini, or green beans depending on what’s available at your local grocery store.
Q6: How spicy is this stir-fry, and can I adjust the heat?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to the optional fresh chilies. To make it milder, use fewer chilies or skip them entirely. For more heat, add extra chilies or a splash of chili sauce.
Q7: Can I make a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish?
Yes! Simply substitute tofu, tempeh, or plant-based shrimp alternatives in place of shrimp while using the same stir-fry method.
Q8: What’s the best way to serve this Thai-style shrimp stir-fry?
Serve hot over jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles. Add fresh basil leaves or a squeeze of lime for a bright, fresh finish.
Q9: Can I prep or store leftovers?
Yes. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 1–2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or wok to maintain texture.
Q10: What sides pair well with this dish?
This stir-fry pairs beautifully with Thai curries, noodle soups, Asian-style slaw, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy. It’s also fantastic as part of a quick weeknight Thai-inspired dinner.
