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This Bacon and Thai Basil Coconut Noodles recipe combines savory bacon with aromatic Thai basil and creamy coconut milk for a deliciously satisfying meal.
The dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
With its blend of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The noodles are tossed in a rich coconut sauce, enhanced by the freshness of Thai basil and the crunch of crispy bacon.
Overview of Bacon and Thai Basil Coconut Noodles
Bacon and Thai Basil Coconut Noodles present a delightful combination of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. This dish features glossy rice noodles enveloped in a creamy coconut sauce, perfectly complemented by crispy bacon and aromatic Thai basil.
The vibrant colors and textures make this meal visually appealing, while the rich flavors ensure it will be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe fits the bill.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to the success of Bacon and Thai Basil Coconut Noodles lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. The dish starts with tender rice noodles that serve as the perfect base. The addition of crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that elevates the overall taste.
Coconut milk brings a creamy richness, while soy sauce and fish sauce introduce depth and umami. Fresh Thai basil leaves contribute a fragrant note, making each bite a burst of flavor. Optional garnishes like chopped green onions and red pepper flakes provide an extra layer of freshness and spice.
Preparation Made Easy
This recipe is designed for efficiency, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by cooking the rice noodles according to package instructions, ensuring they are perfectly tender.
While the noodles cook, prepare the bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. This step not only adds flavor but also leaves behind delicious drippings that will be used to sauté garlic, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
Creating the Coconut Sauce
Once the bacon is cooked, the next step is to create the creamy coconut sauce. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then pour in the coconut milk along with soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar.
Stir the mixture until it simmers, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This sauce is what makes the noodles so rich and satisfying, providing a perfect coating that clings to each strand.
Bringing It All Together
After the sauce is ready, it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently to ensure they are well coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in the crispy bacon and fresh Thai basil, cooking just until the basil wilts.
This step is crucial, as it allows the basil to release its aromatic oils, infusing the dish with its signature flavor. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is sure to please.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To serve, divide the noodles among bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit personal preferences.
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. For a vegetarian version, swap the bacon for mushrooms or tofu, maintaining the integrity of the dish while catering to different dietary needs.
Quick and Flavorful Coconut Noodles with Bacon and Thai Basil
These Bacon and Thai Basil Coconut Noodles feature tender noodles coated in a creamy coconut sauce, complemented by crispy bacon and fragrant Thai basil.
The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles or your choice of noodles
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the crispy bacon and Thai basil, cooking until the basil is wilted.
- Serve: Divide the noodles among bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and additional red pepper flakes if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
Brief Background
Bacon and Thai Basil Coconut Noodles is a bold, flavor-packed dish that fuses smoky bacon with creamy coconut milk, aromatic Thai basil, and rice noodles.
It’s a comforting yet vibrant meal that comes together quickly and delivers a unique combination of savory, sweet, and herbaceous flavors.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this noodle dish offers a Southeast Asian twist with a familiar comfort-food appeal.
Recipe Tips or Variations
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy sauce; light coconut milk will be thinner and less flavorful.
- Cook bacon until crispy for added texture and bold smoky flavor.
- Fresh Thai basil is preferred for its licorice-like flavor-regular basil works if Thai basil is unavailable.
- Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to boost the veggie content.
- For extra heat, stir in Thai red curry paste or a few slices of fresh chili.
- Substitute rice noodles with lo mein, soba, or even spaghetti in a pinch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and use tofu or tempeh for protein. Add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness.
What type of noodles should I use?
Rice noodles work best, but any flat noodle will absorb the sauce well and hold up to the ingredients.
How spicy is this dish?
It can be mild or spicy depending on how much chili or curry paste you add. Customize the heat to your taste.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook noodles fresh for best texture.
Does this reheat well?
Yes! Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
With over a decade of experience turning everyday ingredients into reliable, crowd-pleasing meals, Ryan knows firsthand the frustration of wasting time and effort in the kitchen. He specializes in clear, no-fuss guidance—breaking down techniques, time-saving tips, and smart shortcuts so that even complete beginners feel empowered and confident.
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