Welcome to our recipe blog! Today, we’re excited to share a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine to your kitchen: Thai Basil Fried Millet. This recipe combines the nutty goodness of millet with the fragrant and spicy elements of Thai basil, creating a delicious and aromatic meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Let’s dive in!

Why Thai Basil Fried Millet?

Millet is a versatile, gluten-free grain that works wonderfully with a variety of flavors. Thai basil adds a unique aromatic quality, while the combination of spices and sauces brings a burst of flavor that’s both savory and slightly spicy. This dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 Thai bird chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup snap peas (or green beans)
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or additional soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millet:

1. Rinse the millet under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
3. Add the millet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the millet is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced Thai bird chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

1. Add the diced red bell pepper and snap peas to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

4. Combine and Season:

1. Add the cooked millet to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce (or extra soy sauce), brown sugar, and lime juice. Mix well to combine and heat through.
3. Gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly and infuse their flavor into the dish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped peanuts if desired.
2. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips and Variations:

• Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a more filling meal.
• Vegetable Variations: Include other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or baby corn based on your preference.
• Spicy Twist: Adjust the number of bird chilies to suit your spice tolerance or add a splash of sriracha for extra heat.

Final Thoughts:

Thai Basil Fried Millet is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Thailand to your home. With its fragrant basil and tangy flavors, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy millet in a new and exciting way. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this flavorful meal!