Name: Thai Drunken Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 7 oz dried rice noodles (wide); 2 tbsp oil (peanut, vegetable or canola); 3 large cloves garlic (minced); 2 birds eye chilli or Thai chillies (deseeded, very finely chopped); 1/2 onion onion (sliced); 200 g chicken thighs (cut into bite size pieces); 2 tsp fish sauce (or soy sauce); 2 green onions green onions (cut into 3cm/2″ pieces); 1 cup Thai or Thai Holy Basil leaves (sub regular basil); 3 tbsp oyster sauce; 1.5 tbsp light soy sauce; 1.5 tbsp dark soy sauce; 2 tsp sugar; 1 tbsp water

Introduction to Thai Drunken Noodles

What are Thai Drunken Noodles?

Thai Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, is a bold and flavorful stir-fry dish that showcases the delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Traditionally made with wide rice noodles, this dish is often loaded with aromatic garlic, fresh vegetables, and a protein of choice, such as chicken or beef. The key to its robust flavor lies in its delectable sauce, which combines oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a dash of sugar for balance. You might wonder why it's called "drunken" noodles—some say it's because the dish is best enjoyed late at night, after a night out; others believe the spicy kick is meant to spice up your evening!

The Appeal of Homemade Thai Dishes

Creating your own Thai Drunken Noodles at home offers an array of benefits. There's an unmistakable charm in whipping up an authentic meal that rivals your favorite Thai restaurant. Not only do you have control over the spice levels—feel free to amp it up or dial it down—but you also get to customize it with your preferred ingredients. Plus, cooking at home allows for a fresh, homemade experience that’s both satisfying and cost-effective. As a bonus, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

For more inspiration, check out this article that dives deeper into the cultural significance and variations of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients for Thai Drunken Noodles

Noodle Ingredients

To create the perfect base for your Thai Drunken Noodles, you'll need 7 oz (200g) of wide dried rice noodles. Opt for noodles labeled as "Pad Thai" for the best results. Remember to prepare them according to the package directions to achieve that delightful chewy texture.

Stir-fry Essentials

For the stir-fry, gather the following essentials:

2 tablespoon of oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola work best)
3 large cloves of garlic, minced
2 birds eye or Thai chilies, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference!)
½ onion, sliced
200g (7oz) chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 teaspoon of fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian alternative)
2 green onions, cut into 2″ pieces
1 cup of Thai or Holy Basil leaves (substituting with regular basil is also fine)

Sauce Components

The sauce is where the magic happens! Mix together:

3 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 ½ tablespoon light soy sauce
1 ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce
2 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon water

For additional guidance, check this guide on soy sauce types to make sure you're picking the right variation for flavor enhancement. With these ingredients at hand, you're all set to whip up a delicious batch of Thai Drunken Noodles!

Preparing Thai Drunken Noodles

Making Thai Drunken Noodles (also known as Pad Kee Mao) is an exciting culinary journey that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand right to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a deliciously spicy stir-fry that's perfect for a quick meal. Let’s dive into the steps to prepare this delightful dish!

Cooking the noodles

Start by cooking your wide rice noodles. Follow the instructions on the package, as cooking times can vary. It’s essential to boil them until they’re just tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Once they’re cooked, drain them and toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking. This technique ensures that your noodles won’t clump together when you stir-fry them later.

Mixing the sauce

While your noodles are cooking, let’s whip up the flavorful sauce that makes Thai Drunken Noodles pop! In a small bowl, combine:

3 tablespoons of oyster sauce
1 ½ tablespoons of light soy sauce
1 ½ tablespoons of dark soy sauce
2 teaspoons of sugar
1 tablespoon of water

Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved. This sauce is what will give your dish that signature deep flavor, elevating your noodles to a whole new level.

Stir-frying the aromatics

Grab your wok or a large heavy-based skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of oil over high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 2 chopped Thai chillies. Be careful; the aroma can be quite potent! Sauté these aromatics for about 10 seconds. Trust me, you don’t want to inhale too deeply, or you might end up in a coughing fit!

Adding chicken and vegetables

Next, toss in ½ a sliced onion and stir-fry for about a minute until they soften slightly. Now, it’s time to add 200 grams of chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces, along with 2 teaspoons of fish sauce. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink. Then, introduce your green onions cut into 3 cm pieces. This adds a delightful crunch!

Combining noodles and sauce

Now that your chicken and veggies are ready, add the cooked noodles and your prepared sauce to the wok. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute. The goal is for the sauce to reduce slightly and beautifully coat your noodles, creating that luscious texture everyone loves.

Finishing with basil

Finally, remove the pan from heat and immediately add a cup of Thai (or regular) basil leaves. Toss gently until the basil is just wilted, releasing its aromatic oils. Serve your Thai Drunken Noodles immediately while they’re still hot, and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

For a more authentic experience and tips on where to source these ingredients, check out Thai Food Authority. Happy cooking!

Variations on Thai Drunken Noodles

Vegetarian Version

Looking for a meat-free twist on Thai Drunken Noodles? Simply swap chicken for your favorite vegetables! Consider bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a colorful, crunchy medley. Tofu adds protein and a delightful texture. Toss in some mushrooms for umami, and don’t forget a splash of soy sauce for extra depth. This version is as hearty and satisfying as the original, proving that you don’t need meat to enjoy an incredible meal!

Seafood Addition

If you're a seafood lover, try adding shrimp or scallops to your Thai Drunken Noodles. Simply stir-fry the seafood just until it turns opaque, then follow the original recipe. The natural sweetness of shrimp complements the savory sauce perfectly, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor. For an intriguing twist, drizzle a hint of lime juice before serving, enhancing that delectable, coastal freshness.

For more inspiration, check out Thai Kitchen for additional variations and serving suggestions here.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Thai Drunken Noodles

Choosing the Right Noodles

For Thai Drunken Noodles, wide rice noodles are your best bet. Look for dried noodles labeled as “Pad Thai” to achieve that perfect chewy texture. If you can’t find wide noodles, thinner ones work in a pinch! You can get a reliable option at Woolworths.

Spice Level Adjustments

The recipe calls for two birds eye or Thai chilies, which add warmth without overwhelming heat. If you prefer a milder dish, start with half the recommended amount or a dollop of chili paste instead. Always taste as you go!

Substituting Ingredients

Don’t have Thai basil on hand? Regular basil will still give your Thai Drunken Noodles that delicious flavor. As for soy sauces, feel free to mix light and dark soy to match your pantry supply. Just avoid using all dark soy, as it can be too strong! For further guidance on substitutions, check out this helpful resource.

Serving suggestions for Thai Drunken Noodles

Best accompaniments

Thai Drunken Noodles are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving them with a simple cucumber salad dressed with lime juice and a sprinkle of sugar for a refreshing contrast. Thai spring rolls or crispy vegetable tempura make excellent starters. For a heartier option, try adding a side of grilled chicken or tofu skewers marinated in a zesty Thai sauce.

Plating ideas

When it comes to presentation, keep it vibrant! Use a shallow bowl or a large plate to showcase your drunken noodles. Garnish with additional Thai basil and a squeeze of lime to add freshness. For an extra pop of color, sprinkle chopped red chili on top and arrange lime wedges artfully around the plate—this not only beautifies your dish but also adds a zesty aroma. Don’t forget to capture that Instagram-worthy shot!

Time Breakdown for Thai Drunken Noodles

Preparation Time

The preparation time for these delightful Thai Drunken Noodles is around 15 minutes. During this time, you’ll gather your ingredients, slice the vegetables, and prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions, ensuring everything is ready for a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Time

Once prepped, the cooking time is relatively quick, taking about 10 minutes. In this short span, you’ll stir-fry the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need approximately 25 minutes to whip up this delectable dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these Thai Drunken Noodles are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table!

For more noodle inspiration, check out this comprehensive guide on Asian noodles!

Nutritional Facts for Thai Drunken Noodles

When you dive into a plate of Thai Drunken Noodles, you're doing your taste buds a favor, but what about your nutritional goals? Here’s a quick breakdown to keep you informed!

Calories

One serving of these vibrant noodles has about 454 calories, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner without overindulging.

Protein

Packed with approximately 22.9g of protein, Thai Drunken Noodles are an excellent source for muscle maintenance and energy.

Sodium

While enjoying your delicious meal, keep in mind the sodium content: about 223mg per serving. This means you can relish your noodles without worrying too much about salt intake.

For more detailed nutritional guidance and recipe tips, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or consult a nutritionist for personalized advice. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs about Thai Drunken Noodles

Can I make Thai Drunken Noodles in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the components of your Thai Drunken Noodles ahead of time. Cook the noodles and store them separately from the stir-fried ingredients and sauce. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat everything in a pan and toss them together until warmed through.

What can I substitute for Thai basil?
While Thai basil offers a unique flavor, you can easily substitute it with regular basil in a pinch. Though the taste isn't identical, you’ll still achieve delicious results in your Thai Drunken Noodles. For an added twist, consider mixing in a bit of mint or cilantro to introduce fresh notes.

How can I adjust the sauce's flavor?
Feel free to make the sauce your own! If you prefer a sweeter profile, add more sugar or a splash of sweet soy sauce. For extra depth, consider incorporating a few drops of soy sauce or an additional tablespoon of oyster sauce. Always taste and tweak until you achieve your desired balance!

For more tips on maximizing flavor, explore these insightful cooking resources.

Conclusion on Thai Drunken Noodles

Thai drunken noodles offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Their combination of spicy chilies, fresh basil, and savory sauces makes each bite unforgettable. Try this recipe, and enjoy the comforting and vibrant taste of Thailand in your kitchen!