Thai Fusion Basil Pesto
Experience a delightful twist on traditional pesto with this Thai Fusion Basil Pesto. It combines the umami-rich flavors of fish sauce with the fragrant Thai basil, complemented by the nuttiness of dry roasted peanuts and the heat of crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect as a sauce or marinade, this versatile pesto will elevate your culinary creations.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Thai basil
2 cups (Clean and dry)
Dry roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons (Unchopped)
Sugar
1 tablespoon (None)
Dark sesame oil
1 1/2 tablespoons (None)
Fish sauce
1 tablespoon (None)
Rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon (None)
Crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon (None)
Garlic cloves
2 (Unpeeled)
Instructions
1
Gather all ingredients and ensure the Thai basil leaves are clean and dry.
2
Place fresh Thai basil, dry roasted peanuts, sugar, dark sesame oil, fish sauce, rice wine vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic cloves into a food processor.
3
Blend all the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
4
Transfer the pesto into a container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto to prevent oxidation.
5
For best results, store the pesto in the refrigerator and use within one week.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thai Fusion Basil Pesto?
Thai Fusion Basil Pesto is a unique twist on traditional pesto that combines Italian techniques with Thai-inspired ingredients like fish sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Thai basil.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include fresh Thai basil, dry roasted peanuts, sugar, dark sesame oil, fish sauce, rice wine vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic cloves.
How much Thai basil do I need?
You will need 2 cups of clean and dry fresh Thai basil leaves.
Can I substitute Italian basil for Thai basil?
While you can use Italian basil, the flavor profile will change significantly as Thai basil has a distinct anise-like or licorice flavor.
What type of nuts are used in this pesto?
This recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of dry roasted peanuts, which provide a nutty crunch and classic Thai flavor.
Is this pesto recipe spicy?
Yes, it includes one teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, which adds a noticeable kick of heat.
What gives this pesto its umami flavor?
The inclusion of fish sauce provides a deep, savory umami flavor characteristic of Thai cuisine.
Is this Thai Fusion Basil Pesto vegan?
No, this recipe is not vegan because it contains fish sauce. You could try a vegan fish sauce substitute to make it plant-based.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always ensure your brand of fish sauce is certified gluten-free.
How do I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves. Although the raw data mentions unpeeled, for blending purposes, they should be peeled before being placed in the food processor.
What is the best way to blend the ingredients?
Place all ingredients into a food processor and blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
How long does it take to make this pesto?
The recipe is very quick; once the ingredients are gathered, it only takes a few minutes to blend them together.
How should I store the finished pesto?
Store the pesto in a container in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the pesto from turning brown?
To prevent oxidation and browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pesto before sealing the container.
How long will this pesto last in the fridge?
For the best results and freshness, use the pesto within one week of preparation.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, a high-speed blender will work well to achieve the smooth and creamy consistency required.
What can I use this Thai pesto for?
It is highly versatile and works perfectly as a pasta sauce, a marinade for meats, or a flavorful dip.
What type of sesame oil should I use?
The recipe specifies dark sesame oil, which offers a toasted, nutty aroma that complements the peanuts.
Can I substitute the peanuts with other nuts?
Yes, cashews or macadamia nuts are excellent alternatives that maintain the Asian fusion profile.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
Yes, it uses 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the saltiness of the fish sauce and the acidity of the vinegar.
What kind of vinegar is required?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of rice wine vinegar for a mild, slightly sweet acidity.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Absolutely. You can increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Is there any dairy in this pesto?
No, unlike traditional Italian pesto which uses Parmesan cheese, this fusion version is entirely dairy-free.
Do I need to cook any of the ingredients?
No, this is a raw sauce recipe; all ingredients are blended together without cooking.
Can I use fresh chilies instead of red pepper flakes?
Yes, substituting a fresh Thai bird's eye chili would provide a more authentic and sharper heat.
How much oil is in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 tablespoons of dark sesame oil.
What is the texture of this pesto?
When blended correctly, the texture should be smooth and creamy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients if you are serving a larger group or want extra for meal prepping.
How do I clean the Thai basil?
Wash the leaves in cold water and ensure they are completely dry before blending to prevent a watery consistency.
Is this pesto suitable as a marinade?
Yes, the combination of acid, oil, and aromatics makes it an excellent marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.