Chicken with Basil

"Holy" basil is widely available in Thai stores. The stems are purple and the leaves are pointed, distinguishing it from regular sweet basil. I actually prefer the flavor to "regular" basil—it’s slightly more bitter and fragrant, with a unique aroma. The basil doesn’t require much cooking, as too much heat makes it bitter and destroys the delicate flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons oil

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1/2 pound chicken breast, chopped coarsely

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 4 fresh red chiles, sliced lengthwise

• 1 large bunch of Thai "holy" basil

Instructions

Heat the oil in a wok and fry the garlic until fragrant. Add the chicken breast, and cook over high heat for a few minutes. Add fish sauce and chiles and cook for a few minutes more. Add the basil and toss together until cooked.