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The Ultimate Showdown: Drunken Noodles vs. Pad See Ew – Mouthwatering Thai Delights
Imagine sitting at a cozy Thai restaurant; the spicy, aromatic scent of stir-fried noodles wafting through the air, tantalizing your taste buds. The sizzle of the wok, fresh ingredients, and complex flavors converge in two spectacular dishes: Drunken Noodles and Pad See Ew. In a culinary battle that pits spice against sweet-sour flavors, these two iconic Thai dishes offer an exciting, sensory journey. Whether you’re a fan of fiery flavors or you lean towards the mild and sweet, this guide will walk you through the best way to make these at home.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Perfect for feeding a family of four, these recipes range from easy to medium difficulty, depending on your cooking skills and experience.
Ingredients
Drunken Noodles Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations).
- 8 oz. wide rice noodles
- 1 lb. chicken breast or shrimp
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 red chilies, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lime, sliced (for garnish)
Alternative ingredients: For a vegan version, swap the chicken or shrimp with tofu and use soy-based sauces. For a gluten-free version, ensure that all your sauces are GF-certified.
Pad See Ew Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations).
- 8 oz. wide rice noodles
- 1 lb. chicken breast
- 2 eggs
- 1 bunch Chinese broccoli or regular broccoli, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- White pepper to taste
Alternative ingredients: For a vegetarian version, use tofu instead of chicken and omit eggs.
Steps
Drunken Noodles
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations).
- Soak rice noodles in hot water for about 10 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sliced red chilies; stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add chicken or shrimp and cook until protein is fully cooked through.
- Add bell pepper and carrot; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Mix soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar in a small bowl.
- Add the noodles and sauce mixture to the pan; toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in Thai basil leaves and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Garnish with lime slices and serve hot.
Pad See Ew
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations).
- Soak rice noodles in hot water for about 10 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add chicken breast slices and cook until they turn white.
- Move chicken to one side and add beaten eggs; scramble until cooked.
- Add Chinese broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Mix dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar in a small bowl.
- Add the noodles and sauce mixture to the pan; toss to coat evenly.
- Season with white pepper and serve hot.
Nutritional Benefits
- The bell peppers in Drunken Noodles are rich in Vitamin C, which boosts immune health.
- The Thai basil in Drunken Noodles has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Chicken and shrimp are excellent sources of lean protein.
- Garlic is known for its heart health and immune-boosting benefits.
- Broccoli in Pad See Ew provides fiber, which aids digestion.
- Eggs in Pad See Ew are a good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
There are many possible additions or upgrades to these recipes to enhance their nutritional profile and flavor.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Add mushrooms for a umami kick.
- Use zucchini or squash for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- Top with crushed peanuts for added texture and protein.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
- Include tofu for a vegetarian protein option.
Interested in learning more about the nuances and alternatives of these recipes? Check out the detailed Q&A section below!
Questions and Answers
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can use egg noodles or even spaghetti as a substitute, but the texture will be different.
How can I make the dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of red chilies or omit them completely.
Can I prepare these dishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them when ready to cook.
Is it possible to make these dishes vegan?
Absolutely, just substitute the meat with tofu and use soy-based sauces.
Do I need a special type of wok?
A regular large pan or non-stick skillet will work just fine.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s not recommended as the noodles can become mushy upon reheating.
What is the best way to reheat these dishes?
Reheat in a pan with a little oil to maintain texture.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add any veggies you like, such as spinach, cabbage, or peas.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) to the sauce while cooking.
What can I serve with these dishes?
These dishes pair well with Thai iced tea or coconut water for a refreshing balance.
From my experience, these dishes have always been the highlight of family gatherings and casual dinner parties. The richness of flavors, combined with textural diversity, makes them a surefire hit. Try them tonight and don’t forget to share this recipe on your social networks or with your friends!
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