Thai Basil Beef Spaghetti (Pad Krapow Fusion)

Ingredients

• 200 g Spaghetti
• 300 g Ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup Thai basil (or regular basil)
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1 tsp Chili flakes
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Fish sauce(optional)
• 1 tbsp Brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp Lime juice
• 1 tbsp Neutral oil
• 1 tsp Cornstarch(optional)
• 2 tbsp Water(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente (about 10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. 2

   While pasta cooks, mince garlic. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef, and cook until browned and crumbled (about 8 minutes).

3. 3

   Stir in garlic and chili flakes and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), brown sugar, rice vinegar, and lime juice; simmer 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. 4

   If you want a thicker sauce, stir cornstarch with water and add to the skillet; cook 30–60 seconds until glossy. Add drained spaghetti and toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed. Fold in Thai basil just until wilted (about 1 minute).

5. 5

   Serve immediately, spooning extra sauce over the top.