This guide explains what makes the dish distinctive and how to prepare a convenient version at home with LOBO Thai Basil Seasoning Paste. Whether you miss a favourite Bangkok lunch or want a new weeknight dinner, a small pantry shortcut can make the dish easier to approach.
What Is Pad Kra Pao?
Pad kra pao is a Thai stir-fry built around holy basil, garlic, chilli and a protein such as pork, chicken or beef. It is commonly served over rice; a fried egg is a popular addition. The name refers to the stir-fried holy basil, rather than a particular type of meat.
The flavour should be savoury, aromatic and lively. In its introduction to pad kraphrao, Thailand's government information website highlights the simple combination of protein, seasoning paste and plenty of holy basil. Garlic and chilli give it its punch, while a little sweetness balances the seasoning.
Holy Basil vs Thai Basil: What Is the Difference?
Holy basil, called kaphrao in Thai, is the traditional herb for this dish. It has a peppery character. Thai sweet basil, known as horapha, has a more anise-like aroma. Although English menus often call the dish “Thai basil chicken,” that name does not mean the two herbs are identical.
If you can find fresh holy basil, choose it for the most recognisable flavour. If you substitute another basil, expect a different aroma. A prepared pad ka prao paste is another practical option when you cannot easily buy the traditional herb.
A Convenient Shortcut: LOBO Pad Ka Prao Seasoning Paste
Starting from scratch is rewarding, but it also means sourcing herbs and balancing several seasonings. The 50g pad ka prao seasoning sachet offers a simpler starting point. Keep rice and your preferred protein on hand, and you have the foundations of a Thai-inspired dinner.
For repeat cooking, Maison Siam also offers LOBO Thai Basil Seasoning Paste in a pack of six. Choose the single sachet to try the flavour first, or the multipack for several separate cooking occasions.
How to Make Pad Kra Pao at Home with LOBO Paste
Makes approximately 2 servings. This shortcut follows LOBO's published preparation instructions. Rice, eggs and extra fresh basil are serving additions.
- 1 sachet LOBO Thai Basil Seasoning Paste, 50g
- 250g chopped or sliced chicken, pork or beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon water
- Cooked jasmine rice, to serve
- Optional: fried eggs and fresh holy basil
- Prepare first. Have your rice ready and measure the ingredients before heating the pan.
- Heat the oil. Warm the vegetable oil in a skillet.
- Stir-fry. Add the meat, seasoning paste and water. Stir and turn the mixture until the meat is fully cooked.
- Finish and serve. If adding fresh basil, fold it in near the end. Spoon the stir-fry over rice and add a fried egg if you like.
Follow the instructions on your own packet if they differ. LOBO lists soy, wheat and fish as allergens, with possible traces of shrimp, crab and molluscs. This paste contains fish sauce, so substituting tofu for meat does not make it vegetarian.
Small Details That Make Dinner Better
- Prepare the rice first. A finished stir-fry is easier to serve when the rest of the meal is ready.
- Keep the pieces consistent. Similar-sized pieces of protein are easier to cook evenly.
- Give the pan enough space. For a larger meal, cook in batches rather than crowding everything into a small skillet.
- Be cautious with extra seasoning. A prepared paste already provides flavour. Taste only once the meat is cooked before deciding whether it needs anything else.
- Let everyone choose extra heat. Serve additional chilli separately rather than adding it automatically.
Pad Kra Pao vs Pad Thai: Which Should You Cook?
These dishes have similar-looking English names, but they make very different dinners. Choose according to whether you want an aromatic rice dish or a noodle meal.
| Dish | Main format | Flavour direction | Pantry shortcut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pad kra pao | Basil stir-fry served with rice | Garlicky, savoury and chilli-forward | Thai basil seasoning paste |
| Pad Thai | Stir-fried rice noodles | A balance of sweet, sour and savoury | LOBO Pad Thai Stir-Fry Sauce 120g |
Build a Small Thai Cooking Pantry
You do not need to buy every Thai seasoning at once. Begin with the dish you most want to eat, then add another flavour when you are ready. Alongside a basil stir-fry paste, LOBO Tom Yum Paste gives you a starting point for a soup night, while LOBO Panang Curry Paste opens up another dinner option.
For help choosing a curry style, explore our Thai curry paste guide. Each paste has its own preparation method, so follow its packet rather than using the pad kra pao method for everything.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pad Kra Pao
Is pad kra pao the same as pad krapow?
Yes. These are common English spellings of the same Thai dish. “Pad ka prao” is another spelling you may see on seasoning packets.
Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes. Chicken, pork and beef are all options. Adjust cooking to suit the protein and size of the pieces.
Is pad kra pao always spicy?
Chilli is a characteristic ingredient, but the heat varies. With a prepared paste, some chilli is already included; leaving out extra fresh chilli will not remove that existing heat.
Do I need a wok?
No. A skillet is sufficient for this LOBO preparation. Choose one with enough room to stir the ingredients comfortably.
Where can I buy pad kra pao paste online?
Browse pad ka prao seasoning paste at Maison Siam to check the current product details and ordering options.
Further reading: For a from-scratch approach and more background on the dish, see Hot Thai Kitchen's pad kra pao guide.
