Spicy Thai Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mow)

look into into Drunken Noodles: Pad Kee Mow
Let me take you on a flavor adventure! have you ever tried pad kee mow ? this dish, affectionately dubbed drunken noodles, is one of my absolute favorites.
It's that perfect punchy and spicy thai treat that makes your taste buds dance like they just heard their favorite song!
Originating from the vibrant streets of thailand, pad kee mow is a staple at night markets. you can almost hear the sizzling woks and see the street vendors tossing those wide noodles on high heat.
Honestly, it's like a party in your mouth! the whole dish takes about 25 minutes to whip up and serves around four people .
Not too shabby for such a flavor bomb, right?
This recipe strikes a fantastic balance of health and indulgence. it’s packed with fresh veggies like broccoli and bell peppers, which, let me tell ya, gives it a nice crunch and a pop of color.
Plus, the protein of your choice be it shrimp, chicken, or tofu makes it hearty. you've got your carbs from the rice noodles, and seriously, does it get better than that?
What really makes this dish sing is its unique flavor profile. the combination of soy sauce , oyster sauce , and a kick from chili paste makes it undeniably delicious.
You might want to crank up the heat with some extra chili if you’re feeling adventurous!
Now, you can serve pad kee mow for various occasions. it's perfect for a cozy date night or when you have friends over and wanna impress them with your culinary skills.
They won’t believe you made it at home! plus, with its medium level difficulty, it’s kind of a challenge that anyone can handle.
I remember the first time i waited too long to toss my noodles things got a bit sticky. lesson learned!
In addition to being absolutely scrumptious, this dish is also a little healthier compared to a lot of other options out there.
You get plenty of vitamins from all those fresh veggies, which is a nice bonus, right?
So, grab your wok, and let’s get to cooking these fabulous Drunken Noodles!
Ingredients & Equipment: Get Ready to Cook Pad Kee Mow!
Alright, friend, let’s dive into what you need to whip up some amazing pad kee mow that spicy thai dish that’ll knock your socks off! gather ‘round because i’m serving up all the deets on the ingredients and tools you need for this delicious journey.
Trust me; a little prep goes a long way!
Main Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (45 ml)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (12 g)
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (15 g) — or adjust this to your spice levels!
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz wide rice noodles (340 g) — go for fresh if you can find them!
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30 ml)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets (150 g)
- 1 cup Chinese broccoli or bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup bean sprouts (100 g)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (optional, but it adds protein!)
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil — the more, the merrier!
For Protein (choose one or mix):
- 8 oz chicken breast, sliced (227 g)
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined (227 g)
- 8 oz tofu, cubed (227 g) — seriously, all are delicious!
Quality tips:
look for sauces that have a rich, dark color. fresh veggies should be crisp and vibrant like they just jumped out of the garden! and try to pick thai basil if you can.
Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Seasoning Notes
When it comes to seasoning, think about the essentials. soy sauce is your salty friend, while oyster sauce adds a touch of umami that’s just heavenly.
Want to jazz it up? toss in some fresh lime juice or a hint of fish sauce for that authentic kick.
If you’re out of chili paste, sriracha works like magic.
Equipment Needed
Now let’s make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need:
- Large wok or non-stick skillet — essential for that power cooking!
- Pot for boiling noodles — the bigger, the better!
- Wooden spatula or tongs — happy stirring and flipping!
- Bowl for mixing sauce — you know, to keep the mess to a minimum.
If you don’t have a wok, don’t sweat it! Any big frying pan will work just fine. I’ve used my trusty cast iron skillet a million times and it still does the job.
Ready, Set, Cook!
With all your ingredients and tools lined up, you’re on your way to making some of the best pad kee mow of your life! it’s quick, easy, and packs a flavor punch that’ll have you doing a little happy dance in the kitchen.
Remember, cooking should be fun don't stress the small stuff!
So grab your favorite playlist, let’s get cooking, and soon you’ll be serving up a plate that’ll make you feel like you’re in a bustling bangkok street market.
Enjoy every spicy bite, my friend!
Cooking Pad Kee Mow: Your Guide to Spicy Thai Delights
Oh my gosh, imagine walking through the lively streets of bangkok, surrounded by stalls sizzling with mouthwatering food one of the highlights is definitely pad kee mow, also known as drunken noodles.
Let’s be real, this dish is a flavor explosion that can wake up your taste buds like nobody’s business! so, if you're ready to serve up some serious thai street food vibes at home, buckle up as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe .
Prep Steps: Getting Ready to Rock
First things first, you gotta be all about that mise en place . chop up your veggies and proteins trust me, having everything prepped makes your cooking feel like a breeze.
Have your sauces mixed and noodles soaked before you even think about heating that pan!
Now, let’s talk about saving time. you can soak those wide rice noodles while you get your other ingredients ready.
That way, you’re not scrambling when it’s go-time. and hey, safety reminder: be careful with that hot oil. don’t want a kitchen fiasco, right?
step-by-step Process: Let's Get Cooking!
Soak the Noodles: Grab your 12 oz wide rice noodles and soak them in hot water per package directions. Drain and set aside.
Whisk the sauce: in a bowl, combine 3 tbsp soy sauce , 2 tbsp oyster sauce , 1 tbsp dark soy sauce , 1 tbsp sugar , and some chili paste to kick it up a notch.
Heat Oil: In a large wok or skillet, crank the heat and toss in 2 tbsp vegetable oil . You want it hot think sizzle!
Sauté Garlic: Add 3 minced garlic cloves , letting them turn fragrant (like 30 seconds should do).
Add Protein: Toss in your choice of 8 oz chicken, shrimp, or tofu , cooking until it's so find your-fave fabulous!
Mix in Veggies: Now add 1 sliced red bell pepper and a cup each of broccoli and Chinese broccoli. Get it all tender crisp!
Noodles Go In: Next, toss in those soaked noodles and pour that yummy sauce over everything. Give it a good stir fry to marry all those flavors together.
Final touches: if you’re feeling adventurous, create a well in the center and add 2 beaten eggs , scrambling until cooked.
Toss in bean sprouts and fresh thai basil at the end so good!
Pro Tips: Noodle Nirvana Awaits!
- Crank the Heat: Stir frying is all about high heat . This helps achieve the iconic smoky flavor, or wok hei if you want to sound fancy.
- Prep Ahead is Key: Seriously, don’t wing it! Have everything cut and mixed up before you start cooking to keep things flowing smoothly.
- No Overcrowding: If your pan looks crowded, cook in batches. You want every ingredient to get that glorious sear!
Oh, and about those common mistakes? Don’t skimp on the sauce. It’s where the magic happens. You want your Pad Kee Mow to sing!
So, are you ready to dive into the world of thai street food? pad kee mow is not just a dish; it's a journey that takes you straight to the heart of thailand.
Whether you keep it classic or jazz it up with your favorite ingredients, you can't go wrong. so go ahead start cooking, and before you know it, you'll be serving up a plate of deliciousness that's reminiscent of a bustling bangkok marketplace.
Enjoy, my friend!
Recipe Notes for Pad Kee Mow: Spicy Thai Drunken Noodles
Alright, let’s dig into the nitty gritty of serving and storing this delicious pad kee mow masterpiece. you won’t just whip this up and forget about it; oh no.
This dish deserves some tlc when it comes to presentation and storage!
Serving Suggestions: Plating & Pairing
When you're ready to plate up your drunken noodles , consider tossing those noodles in a big bowl or on a sleek plate.
A sprinkle of fresh thai basil on top gives it that pop of green, making it look super appetizing. you know, just like how they serve it on the streets of bangkok, all vibrant and colorful.
Now, let’s talk sides. pair it with a refreshing thai cucumber salad that sweet and tangy crunch pairs perfectly with the spicy noodles.
Or how about some crispy spring rolls to munch on before the main event? and i must say, a tall glass of thai iced tea next to your bowl just seals the deal!
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
If you have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a rare case with something this tasty), it's cool to store it right! just pop your leftovers in an airtight container and stash them in the refrigerator.
They'll be good for about 3-4 days . if you wanna freeze it, go ahead, but i’d recommend eating it fresh nothing beats that sizzling goodness, right?
Now, reheating is super easy. just toss it in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes until warmed through.
Add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent it from drying out. it's just like giving your leftovers a second life!
Variations: Your Dish, Your Way!
Feeling adventurous? there are loads of ways to switch things up with your pad kee mow . if you're keeping it vegetarian, just load it up with more veggies or use tofu instead.
You could even throw in some seasonal veggies, like asparagus in spring or pumpkin in the fall. embrace the seasons people!
And for my low-carb friends out there, check out a Keto Carbonara Recipe – a twist on the classic while keeping it delicious and healthy.
Nutrition Basics: A Guilt Free Treat
Now, i’m not gonna lie this dish is legit delicious, but it’s not just about the taste. a typical serving of pad kee mow packs about 500 calories .
You get a good hit of protein from whatever protein you choose (chicken, shrimp, tofu), and it's loaded with fresh veggies! seriously, that’s a lot of health benefits wrapped up in a bowl.
Plus, it offers a bit of fiber from all those greens, keeping your tummy happy.
When you make this, you're not just feeding your cravings. You're treating yourself to something authentic and wholesome.
So there you have it, friends. now you’re not just armed with a killer recipe, but you’re also ready to serve, store, and switch it up! whether you’re going for a cozy night in or cooking for a few friends, pad kee mow is a winner.
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pad kee mow and how is it different from other noodle dishes?
Pad Kee Mow, or Drunken Noodles, is a deliciously spicy Thai stir fry made with wide rice noodles. Unlike other noodle dishes, it features a unique blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and plenty of fresh basil, giving it its signature aromatic punch.
It's often served with a variety of proteins or just vegetables, making it a versatile option!
Can I make pad kee mow in advance or store leftovers?
Absolutely! You can prepare pad kee mow in advance, and it keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. When storing, place it in an airtight container. To reheat, just add a splash of water and microwave or stir fry for a couple of minutes to regain that signature stir fry texture.
What's the best way to customize my pad kee mow?
Certainly! Pad kee mow is highly customizable. You can swap out proteins like chicken for shrimp or tofu, and add extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers. If you're feeling adventurous, try different spices or make it vegetarian friendly by using more vegetables and omitting the oyster sauce.
How do I achieve that perfect texture in my pad kee mow noodles?
To achieve that delightful texture, make sure not to over soak your rice noodles; they should be al dente before adding them to the stir fry. Cooking them quickly over high heat with a bit of oil will help retain their chewiness while getting that lovely wok hei the smoky essence that makes the dish sing!
What are some good side dishes to serve with pad kee mow?
Pair your pad kee mow with a refreshing Thai cucumber salad or some crispy spring rolls for a lovely contrast. A tall glass of Thai iced tea also complements the spiciness beautifully, making your meal feel complete and utterly satisfying!
Is pad kee mow healthy or nutritious?
Pad kee mow can be a nutritious option depending on the ingredients you use. It can be packed with protein, fresh veggies, and whole grains if you opt for brown rice noodles. Just keep an eye on the sauces, as they can add sodium and sugar. Balancing your portions is key to enjoying this tasty treat!
This FAQ section is crafted to help both novice and experienced cooks with their questions about pad kee mow, ensuring they have a fantastic culinary experience. Enjoy cooking!
Spicy Thai Drunken Noodles Pad Kee Mow

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 500 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |