Spicy Thai Basil Turkey Stir-Fry
This vibrant Thai-inspired dish features ground turkey sautéed with aromatic garlic, ginger, and fresh chiles, all balanced with a savory blend of soy and fish sauces. The addition of fragrant basil adds a fresh, herbal note, while the heat of jalapeño gives it a delightful kick. Served over fluffy coconut or rice, this quick 30-minute meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is packed with flavor and nutrition. Ideal for anyone seeking a wholesome dish that doesn't compromise on taste.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
soy sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
asian fish sauce
1 tablespoon (none)
lime zest
1/4 teaspoon (finely grated)
lime juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
sugar
1/2 teaspoon (none)
peanut oil
1 tablespoon (none)
gingerroot
1 tablespoon (finely chopped)
garlic cloves
3 (finely chopped)
jalapeno
1 (seeded and finely chopped)
scallion
1 (white and light-green parts finely chopped; greens reserved for garnish)
ground turkey
1 lb (none)
basil
1/2 cup (chopped)
coconut or rice
for serving (cooked)
lime wedge
for serving (none)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, lime zest, lime juice, and sugar. If your fish sauce is particularly salty, start with 2 teaspoons and adjust as needed later.
2
Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped ginger, garlic, jalapeño, and the white and light-green parts of the scallion. Stir and cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture is fragrant and slightly softened.
3
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a fork. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the turkey is fully cooked and no longer pink.
4
Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped basil. Top with the reserved scallion greens for garnish.
6
Serve the stir-fry over warm coconut or rice, alongside lime wedges for squeezing on top.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Thai Basil Turkey Stir-Fry?
It is a quick, 30-minute Thai-inspired dish featuring ground turkey sautéed with garlic, ginger, jalapeño, and fresh basil in a savory soy and fish sauce blend.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This meal is designed to be a quick weeknight dinner that takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Is this turkey stir-fry very spicy?
It has a moderate kick due to the fresh jalapeño, but you can control the heat by removing the seeds or adjusting the amount of pepper used.
Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, ground pork, or even finely chopped tofu for a different variation.
What type of basil should I use?
While traditional Thai basil provides an authentic anise-like flavor, regular sweet basil works well as a fresh and fragrant substitute.
What is the purpose of fish sauce in this recipe?
Fish sauce provides a deep, savory umami flavor that is essential to achieving an authentic Thai taste profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
What should I serve with Spicy Thai Basil Turkey Stir-Fry?
It is best served over fluffy coconut rice or plain white rice, accompanied by fresh lime wedges for squeezing.
Can I use a different oil instead of peanut oil?
Yes, any high-smoke-point oil such as canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil will work for this stir-fry.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this stir-fry?
Yes, the cooked turkey mixture freezes well. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if my fish sauce is too salty?
If your brand is very salty, start with 2 teaspoons instead of a full tablespoon and adjust to your preference at the end.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a lean, protein-packed meal that uses fresh aromatics and can be part of a low-calorie diet.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, snap peas, or green beans make great additions to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
How do I prepare the scallions?
Finely chop the white and light-green parts to sauté with the aromatics, and reserve the dark green tops for a fresh garnish.
Do I need to peel the ginger?
Yes, it is best to peel the gingerroot before finely chopping it to ensure a smooth texture in the stir-fry.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is highly recommended for this dish as it provides a distinct herbal brightness that dried basil cannot replicate.
What if I don't have fresh jalapeños?
You can substitute with a half teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a small amount of Sriracha sauce to add heat.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The turkey is done when it is no longer pink and has been broken into small crumbles, usually taking 5 to 7 minutes.
Can I use lime juice from a bottle?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is preferred because it provides the zest and a brighter flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Is sugar necessary in the sauce?
The small amount of sugar balances the saltiness of the fish sauce and the acidity of the lime; you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, use a plant-based meat crumble or mushrooms, and swap the fish sauce for a vegan 'no-fish' sauce or extra soy sauce.
What makes this dish 'Thai-inspired'?
The combination of fish sauce, lime, ginger, garlic, and basil are staple ingredients in Thai cuisine, creating a specific sweet-salty-sour-spicy balance.
How do I finely grate lime zest?
Use a microplane or the fine side of a box grater to remove only the green part of the skin, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
Should I cook the rice separately?
Yes, you should have your rice or coconut rice cooked and warm before you start the stir-fry, as the turkey cooks very quickly.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh cloves?
Fresh garlic provides a much better aromatic quality for stir-frying, but you can use 3/4 teaspoon of garlic powder if necessary.
Why do I add the basil at the very end?
Adding basil after removing the pan from the heat prevents it from overcooking and losing its vibrant color and fresh aroma.
Is this a good meal prep recipe?
Yes, this dish holds its flavor well and is an excellent option for healthy, high-protein meal prepping for the week.
What if I want a saucier stir-fry?
You can double the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, fish sauce, lime, and sugar) if you prefer a more saucy consistency to coat your rice.
Can I use ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, ground beef can be used, though it will result in a richer, higher-fat dish compared to the leaner ground turkey.