Pork & Holy Basil Stir-fry (Pad Kra Pao)

Pad Kra Pao — the Thai holy basil stir-fry that every street cook in Thailand knows by heart. Ground pork, chilies, garlic, and a splash of fish sauce, tossed at high heat until the basil wilts and the meat browns. A fried egg on top, rice underneath. That's it.

Holy basil (bai kaprao) is the non-negotiable ingredient. Sweet basil won't do it — it lacks the peppery, anise edge that makes this dish hit. The chilies should be generous. The egg should be sunny-side-up, yolk runny, breaking into the rice and sauce when you dig in.

It's a 10-minute dish that tastes like a 3-hour one. The kind of food that reminds you why Thai street food is unbeatable.