Pad Prai Pak Bombong (Thai Basil with Diced Squid and Mint)
A fragrant, high-heat stir-fry featuring tender wild-caught squid and pasture-raised pork, tossed with holy basil, Thai basil, and fresh mint. This version honors the bold Thai fresh-herb tradition while eliminating refined sugars and seed oils, relying on date syrup and high-quality fats for a clean, nutrient-dense meal.
A little context
Traditional Thai stir-fries often rely on seed oils and cane sugar to balance the heat of chilies and the salt of fish sauce. We honor the flavor profile by swapping refined sugar for date syrup, which adds minerals and fiber, and using avocado oil for a high smoke point without the omega-6 overload of industrial vegetable oils. The herb-forward approach is authentic to the 'Pak Bombong' spirit, prioritizing fresh greens over heavy sauces.
The longevity story
This dish leverages the polyphenol density of holy basil and mint, which contain rosmarinic acid and eugenol known for anti-inflammatory and digestive support. Wild-caught squid provides high-quality protein and selenium, while pasture-raised pork offers B vitamins and zinc without the inflammatory fat profile of conventional grain-fed meat. The use of garlic and chilies introduces allicin and capsaicin, supporting metabolic health and circulation without adding empty calories.
Method
- 01
Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, date syrup, and half of the lime juice. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- 02
Prep the rice
Rinse the organic jasmine rice until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions or rice cooker setting. Keep warm.
- 03
Heat the wok
Place your wok over high heat. Add the avocado oil and swirl to coat the surface. Wait until the oil shimmers but does not smoke.
- 04
Sear the pork
Add the diced pasture-raised pork. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides but not cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- 05
Sear the squid
Add a touch more oil if needed. Toss in the diced squid. Stir-fry for only 60-90 seconds. Squid toughens quickly; it should be opaque but still tender.
- 06
Aromatics
Push ingredients to the side. Add garlic and chilies to the center. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, then mix with the proteins.
- 07
Combine and finish
Return the pork to the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Toss vigorously for 30 seconds to coat. Remove from heat immediately.
- 08
Fold in herbs
Stir in the holy basil and mint leaves. The residual heat will wilt them slightly while preserving their volatile oils. Drizzle with remaining lime juice.
- 09
Serve
Divide into bowls over hot organic jasmine rice. Serve immediately while fragrant.
Pro tips
- ✦Squid is done when it turns opaque white; if it curls tightly, it is overcooked.
- ✦Source holy basil from an Asian market if possible; it has a distinct clove-like flavor compared to sweet basil.
- ✦Pat the squid very dry before cooking to ensure a sear rather than a steam.
- ✦Buy date syrup that is 100% dates without added cane sugar to maintain low-glycemic integrity.
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Substitutions
- wild-caught squid → wild-caught scallops or firm white fish (adjust cook time; fish flakes, scallops sear similarly)
- pasture-raised pork → pasture-raised chicken thighs (ensure skin is removed for lower saturated fat if desired)
- date syrup → monk fruit syrup (zero glycemic impact, though less mineral content)
Storage
Store in a glass container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan to avoid toughening the squid. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the squid.
What to serve with it
- Green tea or jasmine tea
- Sparkling water with fresh lime and mint
- Dry red wine (low-sulfite preferred)
FAQ
Can I use regular basil instead of holy basil?+
You can use Thai basil or sweet basil, but holy basil has a peppery, clove-like flavor that is essential to the dish's traditional profile.
Why avocado oil instead of coconut oil?+
Coconut oil adds a strong flavor that masks the herbs. Avocado oil is neutral and has a high smoke point suitable for high-heat stir-frying.
Is this truly Blueprint-aligned?+
It adheres to the core principles: no refined sugar, no seed oils, high-quality proteins, and polyphenol-dense vegetables. It minimizes processed ingredients.
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