Ingredient Guide
Thai Holy Basil vs Sweet Basil: What to Use in Pad Kra Pao
Understand the basil that gives pad kra pao its peppery character, how Thai basil differs and what to do when holy basil is difficult to find.
By Sawadee Masala Kitchen · 6 min read
The basil behind pad kra pao
In Thailand, pad kra pao is named for kra pao—holy basil. Its leaves bring a peppery, clove-like edge that stands up to garlic, chilli and the savoury stir-fry sauce.
Thai sweet basil is a different herb. It has a sweeter aroma with an anise-like note and is commonly used in curries and noodle dishes. It is delicious, but it changes the character of pad kra pao.
How to recognise the options
Labels vary between shops, so use the name and aroma together. Holy basil is often sold as holy basil, tulsi or kra pao. Thai sweet basil is commonly labelled Thai basil or horapha.
Choose bright, unwilted leaves and avoid bunches with extensive dark bruising. If you are uncertain, ask the grocer which basil is intended for pad kra pao.
- Holy basil: peppery and clove-like
- Thai sweet basil: sweeter, with an anise-like aroma
- Italian sweet basil: soft and sweet, with a milder finish
What to use when holy basil is unavailable
For the most recognisable pad kra pao flavour, wait for holy basil when practical. If it is unavailable, Thai sweet basil is a useful kitchen substitute, but the finished dish will be sweeter and less peppery.
Italian sweet basil can work for an everyday home version, although it is more delicate. Keep the garlic and chilli balanced and treat the result as a variation rather than an exact replacement.
Add basil at the right moment
Complete the stir-fry sauce and cook the protein first. Add the basil at the end, toss only until the leaves wilt, then take the pan off the heat. Long cooking dulls the fresh aroma.
Serve immediately with hot rice. A crisp-edged fried egg makes the dish especially satisfying and softens the chilli heat without hiding the basil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tulsi the same as Thai holy basil?
Tulsi is a common name for holy basil, but varieties and aromas can differ. For pad kra pao, look for a fresh culinary bunch sold as holy basil or kra pao and confirm it with the grocer when possible.
Can I use Thai basil in pad kra pao?
Yes, when holy basil is unavailable. It makes a tasty stir-fry, but its sweeter, anise-like aroma is different from the peppery character of traditional holy basil.
When should basil be added?
Add it at the very end and toss just until wilted. Removing the pan from the heat promptly helps preserve the herb’s aroma.