Thai Spicy Basil Fish (Pla Pad Kaprow)

Steps

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1. 1
   Prepare the ingredients: mince the garlic cloves and chop the Thai chilies into small pieces, then use a mortar and pestle to pound them together into a coarse paste (not completely smooth) to release their aromatic flavors. Pick the basil leaves from their stems and set aside.
   ▶ ≈0:29
2. 2
   Make the sauce: combine seasoning soy sauce (2 tbsp), fish sauce (1 tbsp), oyster sauce (1 tbsp), black soy sauce (1 tbsp), a pinch each of white and black pepper, sugar (1/2 tsp), and water (2 tbsp) in a bowl. Stir well and set aside.
   ▶ ≈2:05
3. 3
   Prepare the batter: mix all-purpose flour (1/2 cup), rice flour (1/4 cup), corn starch (1/4 cup), baking powder (1 tsp), salt, and a pinch each of white and black pepper in a bowl. Slowly add soda water (1/2 cup) while stirring until the batter reaches a consistency similar to thin pancake batter. Set aside.
   ▶ ≈4:19
4. 4
   Prepare the fish: cut the swai fish fillets into approximately 1-inch square cubes for even cooking. Dip all the fish pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is completely coated.
   ▶ ≈9:34
5. 5
   Deep-fry the fish: sprinkle a small amount of flour into the hot oil to reduce splattering. Gently place the battered fish pieces into the hot oil and allow them to cook for at least a minute before moving to prevent the coating from falling off. Fry until the exterior is golden and crispy (about 5 minutes), then remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
   ▶ ≈10:23
6. 6
   Begin stir-frying: drain the hot oil from the wok, then add 1 tablespoon of fresh cooking oil. Add the pounded garlic and chili mixture and stir-fry over medium heat until very aromatic (avoid high heat to prevent burning), then add 2 tablespoons of water.
   ▶ ≈13:54
7. 7
   Add the sauce and adjust seasoning: pour in the pre-made sauce and stir until the sauce comes to a gentle boil. Taste and adjust the saltiness or sweetness if needed.
   ▶ ≈15:03
8. 8
   Finish the dish: add the fried fish pieces to the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly. Remove from heat, add the fresh Thai basil (about 1 cup), and quickly toss everything together to combine. The dish is ready to serve.
   ▶ ≈17:30
9. 9
   Serve: plate the spicy basil fish and serve alongside jasmine rice.
   ▶ ≈18:17