Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry: A Flavor Explosion!

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

As the day winds down and the kitchen fills with the sizzling sound of sausage cooking in a hot wok, I can t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. The bold spices of Sichuan pepper and the fragrant aroma of garlic promise an irresistible flavor explosion. I discovered this vibrant Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry one hectic evening when takeout was an easy temptation, but I longed for something fresher and more satisfying.

The best part? This dish is not just about flavor; it s a symphony of colors, from the deep green of tender beans to the bright hues of chili and basil. Plus, it comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With every bite, this culinary gem satisfies cravings while leaving behind the monotony of fast food. Join me as we whip up this delicious stir-fry that will reignite your love for homemade meals and impress your taste buds!

Why will you love Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry?

Flavor Explosion: The marriage of Sichuan pepper and garlic creates an unforgettable taste that s both bold and aromatic.

Vibrant Colors: Bright green beans and fresh Thai basil not only taste great but make your dish visually stunning.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just minutes, proving that homemade doesn t have to mean time-consuming.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dish that s bursting with flavor and looks elegant on the plate.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, making this stir-fry customizable to your preferences!

Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Ingredients

For the Spice Blend
Sichuan pepper adds a unique numbing heat that defines the dish s flavor profile.
Whole coriander seeds provide a warm, citrusy note that complements the spices.
Garlic cloves essential for a robust base flavor that enhances all other ingredients.
Bird s eye chillies bring in heat; adjust quantity to suit your spice tolerance.

For the Stir-Fry
Shallots offer a sweet and mild onion flavor when sautéed.
Sausage meat (chicken or pork) a hearty protein that can easily be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Green beans add a fresh crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender sausage.
Thai basil imparts a distinctive aromatic flavor that is vital for an authentic taste.

For the Sauces
Oyster sauce adds umami richness that enhances the overall flavor.
Fish sauce a little goes a long way in adding depth; it can be replaced with soy sauce for a vegetarian version.
Light soy sauce provides a salty kick without overpowering other flavors.
Dark soy sauce adds color and a hint of sweetness, balancing the dish.
Sugar rounds out the flavors by harmonizing the savory notes.

For the Rice and Eggs
Jasmine rice fragrant and perfect for soaking up the saucy goodness of the stir-fry.
Eggs fried until crisped edges add a lovely richness and serve as a beautiful topping to the dish.
Oil for frying essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on the eggs.

Embrace this Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry as a delightful culinary adventure simple yet extraordinary!

How to Make Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry

1. Toast spices: In a dry pan, toast the Sichuan pepper and coriander seeds until they become fragrant. This step enhances the flavor and aroma about 2-3 minutes will do!

2. Grind paste: Transfer the toasted spices to a pestle and mortar. Add the peeled garlic cloves and bird s eye chillies. Grind everything into a smooth paste and set it aside to marinate.

3. Prep vegetables: Slice the shallots into rounds and prepare the green beans by trimming the ends and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Freshness is key here!

4. Pick basil leaves: Gently pick the Thai basil leaves off their stems and set them aside. This aromatic touch will elevate your dish.

5. Rinse rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. Use approximately 1 1/4 cups of salted water for every cup of uncooked rice. This helps remove excess starch and achieve fluffiness!

6. Cook rice: Prepare the rice according to the instructions on the bag, checking periodically. Let it steam off the heat until it s perfectly fluffy, around 15-20 minutes.

7. Heat wok: Place your wok over medium-high heat and drizzle in some oil. Allow it to get hot enough so the oil shimmers important for a good stir-fry!

8. Cook sausage: Add the sausage meat to the wok. Stir-fry until it s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Aim for a rich golden color!

9. Add paste: Stir in the garlic-chilli paste and sliced shallots. Keep stir-frying until fragrant this should take around 2 minutes.

10. Incorporate sauces: Pour in the oyster sauce, fish sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Stir-fry to combine for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors mingle beautifully.

11. Add green beans: Toss the green beans into the wok in the last minute of cooking, stirring until they re tender-crisp. You want that vibrant green color!

12. Finish with basil: Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai basil leaves until just wilted. This final touch makes all the difference!

13. Fry eggs: Wipe down the wok and pour in enough oil to coat the bottom. Crack in each egg and fry until the edges are crispy and the yolks are cooked to your liking, about 2-3 minutes.

14. Drain eggs: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried eggs to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

15. Assemble plates: Portion the fluffy jasmine rice onto four plates. Top each plate with a generous helping of the sausage and green bean stir-fry, followed by a crispy fried egg.

16. Add garnish: If desired, sprinkle more sliced chilli on top for an extra kick.

Optional: Serve with lime wedges for a refreshing zing.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry?

Elevate your dining experience by exploring the perfect accompaniments to this delightful stir-fry that bursts with flavor.

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The delicate grains absorb the rich sauces beautifully, creating a comforting base for your stir-fry.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden bites add a satisfying crunch, making for a delightful contrast in texture alongside the stir-fried elements.
• Soy Garlic Edamame: A simple yet irresistible side that provides a fresh pop of flavor; it complements the heat of the stir-fry beautifully.
• Asian Slaw: Crisp veggies drizzled with sesame dressing bring a refreshing crunch, balancing the savory richness of your main dish.
• Chilled Cucumber Salad: The coolness of sliced cucumbers tossed in vinegar and sesame oil offers a light, refreshing counterpoint to the bold flavors.

For a sweet ending, consider serving Mango Sticky Rice. This traditional dessert features sticky rice, fresh mango, and a drizzle of coconut cream, creating a delightful conclusion to your meal that contrasts the spiciness of the stir-fry.

Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that elevate your dish, ensuring every bite is an adventure!

• Vegetarian: Substitute sausage meat with firm tofu, marinated in soy sauce for added flavor. Enjoy a rich, plant-based experience that s just as satisfying!

• Low-Carb: Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version that complements the bold flavors while keeping it healthy.

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes to intensify the heat. This adds a zesty kick that goes hand-in-hand with the dish s excitement!

• Coconut Sauce: Swap the oyster sauce with coconut aminos for a sweeter twist. This variation combines the savory elements while giving you a touch of tropical flair.

• Crunch Factor: Toss in some cashews or peanuts toward the end of cooking. This not only boosts crunch but also brings a nutty richness that harmonizes beautifully with the sausage.

• Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas into your stir-fry. This adds color, nutrition, and different textures, making each bite interesting.

• Garlic Lovers: For an aromatic enhancement, double up on garlic or use garlic-infused oil while frying the eggs. It adds a fragrant punch that is undeniably appealing.

• Herb Fusion: Try mixing Thai basil with cilantro or mint for a fresh aromatic twist that brightens the dish and adds another layer of flavor complexity!

Expert Tips for Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry

• Perfect Spice Balance: Start with less Sichuan pepper and bird s eye chillies, then gradually add more if needed. This prevents overwhelming your dish with heat.

• Crispy Eggs: To achieve the perfect fried egg with crispy edges, make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before cracking in the eggs.

• Stir-Fry Technique: Stir-frying requires quick movements. Keep the ingredients moving in the wok to achieve that wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor this is key for your Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh green beans and Thai basil for the best flavor. Wilted or aged veggies won t be as vibrant in taste or appearance.

• Substitutions: Feel free to swap the sausage for a vegetarian option or add extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.

• Rice Cooking Tips: Rice can vary in cooking time; always check and allow for rest time after cooking to achieve that perfect fluffy texture!

Make Ahead Options

These Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the garlic-chili paste and slice the shallots up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The green beans can be prepped (topped, tailed, and chopped) up to 3 days ahead, ensuring you have crisp veggies ready to go. When you re ready to serve, simply cook the rice according to package instructions, stir-fry the sausage with your prepped ingredients, and finish with the Thai basil and fried eggs for a delicious, stress-free meal that tastes just as vibrant and fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry

Room Temperature: Enjoy your stir-fry fresh and warm; it should not sit out for more than 2 hours before refrigeration.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure safe consumption.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a hot wok or microwave until heated through. Freshly fried eggs can be added just before serving for that perfect crispy texture!

Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs

What kind of sausage should I use for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! You can use either chicken or pork sausage, depending on your preference. If you re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic substitute that will soak up the flavor just as well!

How do I know when the green beans are fresh?
Very! Fresh green beans are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Avoid those with dark spots, wrinkles, or a dull appearance. They should snap easily when bent a sign of freshness!

How should I store leftovers of the Sichuan Sausage and Thai Basil Stir-Fry?
To keep your leftovers safe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying again!

Can I freeze the stir-fry? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the stir-fry cool completely, then portion it into airtight, freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to 2 months. When you re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat until piping hot. If you wish to maintain that crunchy texture, fry the eggs fresh before serving.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you re preparing this for someone with food allergies, note that fish sauce and oyster sauce contain seafood, which may be a concern. You can easily substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian option. Additionally, the dish contains eggs, so be cautious of any egg allergies.

What if my rice comes out sticky?
If your rice turns out sticky, ensure you rinse it well before cooking until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, which can be a sticky culprit. You may also want to use a bit more water for cooking, about 1 1/4 cups for each cup of rice, and let it steam off the heat afterward for about 10 minutes!