Chilli mince beef with basil

Chilli mince beef with basil features spicy ground beef enhanced with aromatic basil, garlic, and chili peppers, served over fresh lettuce. This straightforward dish combines rich flavors and a crisp texture for a satisfying meal.

11 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

4 cups lettuce
2 tbsp olive oil
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
2 red hot chili peppers
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1/2 cup chicken gravy
1 cup scallions
1/2 cup basil leaves

Chilli mince beef with basil is a flavorful and spicy dish that combines tender minced beef with the aromatic flavors of basil, garlic, and chili peppers. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals and can be served over a bed of lettuce for a refreshing touch. Follow this straightforward recipe to create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Wash and dry the lettuce. Tear into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Finely chop the red hot chili peppers and mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the scallions and roughly chop or tear the basil leaves.

2. Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat up.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add Aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped red hot chili peppers and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

4. Season the Beef:
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Stir well to combine, making sure all the beef is coated with the sauces.

5. Add Chicken Gravy:
- Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken gravy. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.

6. Incorporate Scallions and Basil:
- Add the chopped scallions and basil leaves to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the scallions are tender and the basil is wilted.

7. Serve:
- Arrange the lettuce on a large serving plate or individual plates. Spoon the chilli minced beef mixture over the lettuce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chilli mince beef with basil is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings a perfect balance of spiciness and freshness to your table. The combination of tender beef, fresh basil, and spicy chili peppers creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and memorable. Enjoy this dish as a standalone meal or serve it over rice or lettuce for a complete dining experience.

Chilli mince beef with basil FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the chilli mince beef?

The total cooking time for the chilli mince beef is about 12-15 minutes, including 5-7 minutes for browning the beef and an additional 5-8 minutes for simmering with the sauces and aromatics.

What should I look for to know the beef is cooked through?

Ground beef is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is no longer pink in the center. Ensure it is browned evenly throughout.

Can I store leftovers of this dish?

Yes, leftover chilli mince beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

What if I don’t have chicken gravy?

You can substitute chicken gravy with beef broth or vegetable broth. If using broth, you may want to add a thickener like cornstarch or flour for the desired consistency.

Can I make this dish low-carb?

Yes! Serving the chilli mince beef over lettuce, as suggested, is already low-carb. Additionally, you can skip the sugar or use a sugar substitute to further reduce carbs.

Cooking Tips:

- For less heat, you can remove the seeds from the chili peppers before adding them to the dish.

- Make sure to use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and aroma.

- Cook the beef on medium-high heat to ensure it browns nicely without overcooking.

- Adjust the amount of fish sauce and sugar to taste, based on your preference for sweetness and saltiness.

- Serve the dish immediately after cooking for the freshest taste and best texture.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 1.07g
Sugar 4.32g
Fat 22g

Chilli mince beef with basil