Begin by rinsing the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Transfer the rice to a pot and add 2 cups (480ml) of water.
Set the pot on medium heat, bring it to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.
While the rice is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in the Red Thai curry paste and cook for about 2 minutes.
Pour in the coconut milk, stirring constantly until well-combined with the curry paste.
Add the fish balls into the mixture, ensuring they’re well-covered in the sauce.
Drizzle fish sauce and sprinkle sugar into the skillet, stirring gently.
Add kaffir lime leaves and half of the fresh basil, then let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
Once the fish balls are cooked through, stir in lime zest and remove from heat.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and the remaining basil.
Serve the Red Thai fish balls atop the freshly cooked rice.