There’s a certain thrill that comes with whipping up a dish that transports you straight to another part of the world. One bite of this Thai Basil Squid and you’ll be swept away by the vibrant flavors of Thailand, all while enjoying the comforts of home. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a bustling street food market. The spicy aroma of roasted chili paste filled the air, and my senses ignited with anticipation.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve mastered this incredible recipe that’s perfect for those bustling weeknights when fast food just won’t cut it. With tender squid, fragrant Thai basil, and just the right amount of heat, this meal not only comes together in about 25 minutes but also brings a burst of flavor that’ll make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to impress your family—and it’s much healthier than takeout! Grab your wok, and let’s dive into this simple yet sophisticated culinary adventure!
Why is Thai Squid a Must-Try Recipe?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can serve up an exotic dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Bold Flavors: The fusion of Thai roasted chili paste and fresh basil brings a vibrant depth to the tender squid.
Healthy Choice: Chock-full of protein and low in calories, this dish is a guilt-free way to enjoy seafood.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice or serve it over noodles for a delightful twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family and friends with this restaurant-quality meal, perfect for cozy weeknights or gatherings!
Thai Squid Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to this flavorful dish with essential ingredients.
For the Squid
- 12 oz squid – Cleaned and cut into rings for a tender texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
For the Stir-Fry
- 1 tablespoon oil – Use vegetable or canola oil for high smoke points, ensuring quick and even cooking.
- 3 tablespoons Nam prik phao – Thai roasted chili paste adds a rich, spicy depth that defines the dish.
- 3-4 Thai chilies – Lightly pounded to release their heat; adjust the quantity to control the spiciness.
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce – Adds umami and enhances the flavor balance; use less for a milder taste.
For the Finish
- ½ cup Thai basil leaves – Fresh basil contributes aromatic herbal notes; stems should be removed for a better texture.
Dive into this delicious Thai squid dish and enjoy the ease of preparing a meal that’s as satisfying as it is healthy!
How to Make Thai Squid
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Clean the squid thoroughly under cold water, removing any unwanted bits. Next, cut it into rings for that perfect bite. Blanch in boiling water for 5-10 seconds, then drain and set aside to retain its tender texture.
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Heat the wok on high and add the oil. Once it’s shimmering, stir in the roasted chili paste and lightly pounded Thai chilies. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until the aroma fills your kitchen—this is where the magic happens!
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Combine the squid with the chili mix, tossing it gently to ensure every ring is coated in that delightful spicy goodness. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the squid turns opaque and is cooked through.
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Season with fish sauce, stirring a few times. Then, add the Thai basil leaves. As soon as the leaves begin to wilt and the flavors meld together, it’s time to dish out your Thai squid and serve immediately with fluffy rice.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thai Squid
Fridge: Store leftover Thai squid in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of Thai squid in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through—this helps retain the flavors and keeps the squid tender.
Make Ahead Options
These Thai Squid are perfect for busy weeknights! You can clean and cut the squid into rings and blanch it up to 24 hours in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the chili paste mixture by combining the Nam prik phao with the pounded Thai chilies ahead of time, keeping it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your wok, add the oil, stir-fry the chili paste for a minute, then toss in the prepped squid and finish with fish sauce and basil. This method ensures your dish remains incredibly fresh and just as delicious, all while saving you valuable time during your busy evenings!
What to Serve with Thai Basil Squid?
Creating a memorable meal is all about pairing delightful flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The perfect base to soak up the spicy sauce, adding a light and fragrant touch to your dish. Pairing rice with Thai Basil Squid elevates the entire experience, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas brings freshness and crunch, balancing out the squid’s tender texture. The variety will not only satisfy the palate but also provide a gorgeous presentation.
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Coconut Curry Soup: This creamy, aromatic soup provides a comforting contrast to the spicy squid, allowing for a delightful flavor journey. Imagine slurping up the warm curry while savoring your seafood—pure deliciousness!
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Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that offers a delightful crunch with its sweet and tangy dressing. The coolness of the cucumbers perfectly offsets the heat of the Thai Basil Squid, making for a harmonious meal.
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Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango: A luscious dessert that ends the meal on a sweet note. The creaminess of coconut milk and the natural sweetness of mango provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the main dish.
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Chilled Thai Beer: A crisp and refreshing choice to wash down your meal, this delightful drink enhances the vibrant flavors while cooling your palate. Pairing it with Thai Basil Squid creates a well-rounded dining experience that feels authentically Thai!
Thai Squid Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish with these exciting twists and swaps!
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Coconut Milk: Add a splash of coconut milk to the stir-fry for a creamy texture and tropical flavor. It will elevate the dish while keeping it rich and satisfying.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch. This not only enhances the dish visually but also increases its nutritional value.
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Pasta Twist: Serve the Thai squid over cooked spaghetti or rice noodles for a unique fusion meal. This offers a heartier option while still holding onto those vibrant flavors.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute fish sauce with tamari sauce to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste. You’ll still enjoy the same umami goodness!
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Sweet Kick: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup in for a hint of sweetness that balances the spice. Sweetness can enhance the overall flavor profile beautifully.
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Heat Up: For an extra kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with a side of chili sauce. Feel free to adjust the heat to your liking—spice lovers will particularly appreciate this!
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Herbal Fusion: Try mixing in other fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint alongside the basil for a refreshing twist. These herbs bring additional layers of flavor to your dish.
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Alternative Proteins: Swap out squid for shrimp or chicken for a different protein option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything stays tender and perfectly cooked.
These variations invite you to embark on a culinary adventure all your own, while still keeping the essence of this wonderful Thai dish!
Expert Tips for Thai Squid
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Choose Fresh Squid: Always select fresh squid for a tender texture. If using frozen squid, ensure it is properly thawed before cooking to avoid rubbery bites.
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Control the Heat: Adjust the number of Thai chilies to your spice preference. Start with fewer chilies if you’re unsure, then add more to achieve the desired heat for your Thai squid.
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Quick Cooking: Avoid overcooking the squid. Cook just until it turns opaque, typically about 2-3 minutes. Overcooked squid can become tough and chewy.
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Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust the fish sauce as needed. It should be savory without overpowering the dish. Start with a smaller amount and build up to prevent any common mistakes.
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Basil Freshness: Use fresh Thai basil for the best aroma and flavor. Dried basil won’t yield the same impact, so opt for fresh for that authentic experience!
Thai Basil Squid Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh squid for my Thai squid dish?
Absolutely! When selecting squid, look for glossy and slightly firm flesh with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh squid should feel moist but not slimy. If opting for frozen squid, ensure it’s properly thawed in the refrigerator before cooking to avoid a rubbery texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover Thai squid?
Store any leftover Thai squid in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat the squid in a pan on medium heat to avoid making it tough. It’s best to savor it fresh, but if you have to save some, this method will help preserve its tenderness.
Can I freeze Thai squid, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze Thai squid, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to label them with the date. Thai squid can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow the squid to thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed, which will help keep it tender and flavorful.
What if my Thai basil turns brown or wilts?
Don’t fret! If your Thai basil starts to brown or wilt, it may be past its prime. Fresh basil should be vibrant and green. To revive wilting basil leaves, place them in a glass of water for a few hours. If they’ve turned brown, it’s best to discard them and get fresh basil for your Thai squid to maintain that aromatic flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for Thai squid?
Very! This Thai basil squid recipe is naturally gluten-free, as the ingredients don’t include soy sauce or wheat-based products. However, if you have allergies to shellfish or seafood, you should avoid this dish altogether and possibly substitute with a vegetarian option. For those dining with pets, make sure they don’t get any, as squid can be rich for their tummies!
Savor Thai Squid with Fresh Basil in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean the squid thoroughly under cold water, removing any unwanted bits. Cut into rings and blanch in boiling water for 5-10 seconds, then drain and set aside.
- Heat the wok on high and add the oil. Stir in the roasted chili paste and Thai chilies. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine the squid with the chili mix, tossing gently. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the squid is opaque.
- Season with fish sauce and add Thai basil leaves. Serve immediately with fluffy rice.