Layered Thai Basil & Tofu Rice Recipe
A Flavorful and High-Protein Vegetarian Dish
Description:
The Layered Thai Basil & Tofu Rice is a beautifully layered dish that brings together the aromatic and flavorful essence of Thai cuisine. It takes the classic Thai basil tofu curry and pairs it with fragrant jasmine rice for a truly satisfying meal. With the added heat from Thai red chilies, the savory umami from light and dark soy sauce, and the earthy richness from shiitake mushrooms, this dish is packed with flavor. The crunch from roasted peanuts and the freshness of Thai basil leaves make every bite an explosion of deliciousness. Serve this with a Thai Yellow Curry for a complete, hearty, and nutritious meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Cuisine: Thai
Course: Dinner
Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| For the Basil Tofu Curry | |
| Tofu (cubed) | 150 grams |
| Onion (chopped into chunks) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (crushed) | 8 cloves |
| Thai Red Chilies (Bird’s Eye) | 6 chilies |
| Thai Basil Leaves (chopped) | A small bunch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Light Soy Sauce | ½ teaspoon |
| Dark Soy Sauce | ½ teaspoon |
| Shiitake Mushrooms (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Sugar | ½ teaspoon |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 2-½ tablespoons |
| Groundnut Oil | 1-½ tablespoons |
| For the Rice | |
| Jasmine Rice | ¾ cup |
| Water | 1-½ cups |
| Roasted Peanuts (optional) | A few, for garnish |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions for Layered Thai Basil & Tofu Rice Recipe:
-
Prep the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all the ingredients for both the curry and the rice. For the curry, pound the red chilies and garlic together using a pestle and mortar to create a rough paste. This paste will form the flavor base of the dish. Set aside. -
Cook the Rice:
To make the rice, wash the jasmine rice thoroughly to remove any excess starch. Then, cook it in an electric rice cooker using the water-to-rice ratio provided (1-½ cups water to ¾ cup rice). Using an electric rice cooker ensures perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. -
Sauté the Curry Base:
While the rice is cooking, heat 1-½ tablespoons of groundnut oil or any neutral oil of your choice in a wok over medium heat. Add the ground chili-garlic paste to the hot oil, allowing it to fry and release its fragrance. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. -
Add the Vegetables and Tofu:
Once the chili and garlic paste is well-fried, add the chopped onion to the wok. Fry for about a minute until softened. Then, add the cubed tofu. Continue to fry the tofu until it turns a golden brown color, which should take around 4-5 minutes. -
Incorporate the Seasonings and Mushrooms:
Next, add both light soy sauce and dark soy sauce to the wok. Stir in the finely chopped shiitake mushrooms and let the flavors combine. Add salt sparingly as the soy sauce already contains sodium. Allow this mixture to fry for an additional 2 minutes, stirring continuously to ensure even cooking. -
Add Fresh Basil Leaves and Simmer:
Once the tofu and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce and seasoning, add the chopped Thai basil leaves. Stir everything together and cook for an extra minute, allowing the basil to wilt and infuse the curry with its signature aroma. -
Layer the Rice and Curry:
To assemble the layered dish, choose a serving bowl or platter. Start by layering the bottom with a portion of the cooked jasmine rice. Next, spread a generous layer of the basil tofu curry over the rice. Repeat this process, layering the rice and curry until you run out of both ingredients, finishing with a final layer of curry on top. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your layered dish with roasted peanuts (if desired) for an added crunch. Serve the Layered Thai Basil & Tofu Rice with a side of Thai Yellow Curry for a complete and balanced meal that’s sure to please.
Allergen Information:
- Soy: Both light and dark soy sauces contain soy, so this dish is not suitable for individuals with soy allergies.
- Gluten: The soy sauce used in this recipe may contain gluten, so make sure to opt for a gluten-free version if necessary.
- Nuts: This recipe uses roasted peanuts as a garnish, which could be a concern for individuals with nut allergies.
Dietary Preferences:
- High-Protein Vegetarian: This dish is rich in protein from tofu, making it a great choice for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake.
- Vegan: By ensuring that you use plant-based oils and verify your soy sauce is vegan, this recipe is suitable for a vegan diet.
- Dairy-Free: There are no dairy products in this recipe, making it a good option for those following a dairy-free diet.
Advice:
- Customize the Spice Level: Thai red chilies (Bird’s Eye chilies) are quite hot, so adjust the quantity according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or opt for a less spicy variety.
- Rice Cooker Tips: For perfectly fluffy jasmine rice, be sure not to overfill your rice cooker. Stick to the recommended water-to-rice ratio for optimal results. If you don’t have a rice cooker, stovetop cooking also works well—just be sure to cover the rice and cook it on low heat until the water is absorbed.
- Optional Garnishes: Roasted peanuts add a wonderful crunch, but if you prefer a nut-free version, you can leave them out or substitute with toasted sesame seeds for a different texture.
Conclusion:
Layered Thai Basil & Tofu Rice is a delightful and aromatic dish that offers an unforgettable taste of Thai cuisine. The combination of savory tofu, fragrant basil, shiitake mushrooms, and the heat from Thai red chilies creates a complex and layered flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. Paired with jasmine rice, the curry’s flavors seep into the grains, making each bite a delicious and satisfying experience. Whether you’re looking for a fulfilling weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a perfect choice. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit a variety of dietary preferences, from vegetarians to vegans and beyond.
Serve this dish alongside a hearty Thai Yellow Curry, and you’ve got a meal that’s rich in flavor and packed with nutrients—ideal for a wholesome, comforting dining experience. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every spoonful and feel the true essence of Thai cuisine come to life in your kitchen!
