Kra Prao Khai Dao (ข้าวกะเพรา+ไข่ดาว) : The Perfect Lunch for Thai Street Food

Kra Prao Khai Dao (ข้าวกะเพรา+ไข่ดาว)

The Perfect Lunch for Thai Street Food

When it comes to a quick, delicious and satisfying Thai lunch, Kra Prao Khai Dao (ข้าวกะเพรา+ไข่ดาว), stir-fried basil with a fried egg served over rice is an unbeatable choice. Found at nearly every Raan Tam Sung (ร้านตามสั่ง) or “made-to-order” restaurant, this dish is a quintessential part of Thailand’s everyday dining culture.

Khao Kra Prao Moo Grob Khai Dao

(ข้าวกะเพราหมูกรอบไข่ดาว)

What is Kra Prao Khai Dao?

Kra Prao Khai Dao consists of:

        Stir-Fried Meat with Basil (Kra Prao – กะเพรา) : A spicy and aromatic stir-fry made with your choice of protein, such as pork (Moo – หมู), chicken (Gai – ไก่) or seafood (Talay – ทะเล). Key ingredients include holy basil, garlic, chilies and a savory sauce blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce.

        Fried Egg (Khai Dao – ไข่ดาว) : A crispy-edged fried egg with a runny yolk, adding richness to the dish.

        Steamed Rice (Khao – ข้าว) : A simple base that soaks up the flavorful stir-fry and runny egg yolk.

This dish offers the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and umami flavors, all balanced by the creamy egg and fluffy rice.

Why is Kra Prao Khai Dao a Perfect Lunch?

        Quick and Customizable: It’s prepared fresh in minutes and tailored to your choice of protein and spice level.

        Affordable and Filling: A hearty meal that’s budget-friendly and widely available.

        Flavorful and Energizing: The bold flavors and protein-rich ingredients provide a satisfying energy boost for the rest of your day.

Tips for Enjoying Kra Prao Khai Dao

• Mix the runny egg yolk into the rice for added creaminess.
• Add a splash of fish sauce with chopped chilies (Nam Pla Prik – น้ำปลาพริก) for an extra flavor kick.
• Pair it with a refreshing iced drink like Thai lime tea (Cha Manao – ชามะนาว) to balance the spice.

Why Raan Tam Sung?

Raan Tam Sung eateries are ubiquitous in Thailand, offering quick, freshly prepared meals made to your exact preferences. The casual, budget-friendly atmosphere makes them a favorite for locals and travelers alike.

At any Raan Tam Sung, ordering is simple.

        1. Choose Your Protein:

                    Moo (pork), Gai (chicken), Moo Grob (crispy pork), 

                    Nuea (beef) or Talay (seafood) as desired.

        2. Adjust the Spice Level:
                    “Mai Phet” (ไม่เผ็ด) – “Not spicy.”
                    “Phet Noi” (เผ็ดน้อย) – “A little spicy.”
                    “Phet Mak” (เผ็ดมาก) – “Very spicy.”

        3. Optional Add-Ons:
                    Ask for an fried egg (Khai Dao - ไข่ดาว)

Order Phrases

        "Ao Khao Kra Prao Moo Khai Dao krub/ka " (เอาข้าวกะเพราหมูไข่ดาว) - "Rice + Stir Fried basil with Pork + Fried Egg"

        "Ao Khao Kra Prao Gai Khai Dao krub/ka " (เอาข้าวกะเพราไก่ไข่ดาว)  - "Rice + Stir Fried basil with Chicken + Fried Egg"

       "Ao Khao Kra Prao Moo Grob Khai Dao krub/ka " (เอาข้าวกะเพราหมูกรอบไข่ดาว)  - "Rice + Stir Fried basil with Crispy Pork + Fried Egg"

- Try the phrases and give a comment feedback -