The aroma of fresh basil wafts through the air, mingling with the sizzle of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in a hot pan. Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, promise a flavor explosion that will put a smile on your face and maybe even make you dance a little in the kitchen.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)Khin’s Kitchen
- REMEMBER
- How to Make Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)Khin’s Kitchen
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What are Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)?
- How can I make Drunken Noodles vegetarian?
- Can I prepare Drunken Noodles ahead of time?
- What sides pair well with Drunken Noodles?
- Conclusion for Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)-Khin’s Kitchen:
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was my attempt to impress friends at a dinner party. Spoiler alert: I ended up impressing myself more than anyone else! The combination of savory sauce, chewy noodles, and zesty herbs became an instant favorite. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or your next big bash, these noodles are sure to steal the show!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for Drunken Noodles is incredibly easy to whip up in under 30 minutes.
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of spicy, savory, and aromatic that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Versatile enough for any dietary preference, you’ll find it easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry.
Ingredients for Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)Khin’s Kitchen
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Rice Noodles: Use flat, wide rice noodles for that authentic chewy texture—look for them in Asian grocery stores.
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: I recommend thighs for their juiciness; you can also substitute with beef or turkey if preferred.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Thai basil adds an aromatic touch; however, regular basil works too if that’s what you’ve got.
- Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of colors for visual appeal; they add crunch and sweetness to balance the dish.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still getting that umami kick.
- Sriracha: Spice things up! Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
- Vegetable Broth: This adds depth and moisture; feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
How to Make Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)Khin’s Kitchen
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles
Begin by soaking your rice noodles in hot water according to package instructions until they’re softened but not mushy—think al dente but with a noodle twist.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil and toss in your boneless chicken thighs. Cook until browned and fully cooked through—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Veggies
Once your chicken is looking golden brown and smelling irresistible, toss in sliced bell peppers and cook until they soften slightly—around another 3-4 minutes will do.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl while your veggies are cooking, whisk together soy sauce, Sriracha, and vegetable broth—feel free to add extra garlic or lime juice if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Drain your softened noodles and add them straight into the skillet with chicken and veggies. Pour over the sauce mixture and stir-fry everything together until all ingredients are well coated.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top before serving! Dish out generous portions onto plates or bowls—don’t forget to take an Instagram-worthy photo before diving in!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every savory bite of these delightful Drunken Noodles!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by marinating your chicken while cooking your noodles. Once the noodles are almost done, stir-fry the marinated chicken with veggies and sauce, bringing everything together for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for beef or turkey, or throw in some extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. Spice things up with chili flakes or fresh herbs to personalize your Drunken Noodles experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the noodles from drying out and warm them thoroughly on the stovetop.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh vegetables for better texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan while stir-frying to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect balance of flavors.
Sometimes I whip up Drunken Noodles when friends come over, and their delighted faces remind me why I love cooking—those smiles are worth every noodle!
FAQs:
What are Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)?
Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, is a popular Thai dish known for its bold flavors and satisfying texture. This stir-fried noodle dish typically features wide rice noodles tossed with a combination of protein, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The sauce blends soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili for a spicy kick. You can easily adapt this recipe by using chicken or beef instead of pork, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
How can I make Drunken Noodles vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of Drunken Noodles, simply replace meat with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth and soy sauce as the base for the sauce. Incorporate plenty of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. This adaptation allows vegans and vegetarians to savor the delightful experience of Pad Kee Mao without compromising their dietary choices.
Can I prepare Drunken Noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Drunken Noodles ahead of time! To do so, cook the noodles and stir-fry the ingredients separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat everything in a pan or microwave until hot. Keep in mind that fresh vegetables may lose some crunch when reheated. For best results, it’s advisable to enjoy Pad Kee Mao within a couple of days.
What sides pair well with Drunken Noodles?
When serving Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao), consider pairing them with refreshing sides to balance the rich flavors. A cucumber salad dressed with lime juice and chili adds a nice contrast. Alternatively, serve steamed jasmine rice or sautéed greens for additional texture and nutrition. These accompaniments enhance your dining experience while complementing the bold taste of the noodles.
Conclusion for Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)-Khin’s Kitchen:
In summary, Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) is an exciting dish that offers flexibility with its ingredients while maintaining robust flavors. By using alternatives like chicken or beef instead of pork and incorporating fresh vegetables, you create a delightful meal everyone can enjoy. Whether you choose to make it vegetarian or serve it alongside refreshing sides, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends at any gathering. Enjoy cooking this vibrant dish from Khin’s Kitchen!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, is a tantalizing Thai stir-fry that combines chewy rice noodles with juicy chicken thighs and vibrant bell peppers, all tossed in a spicy soy sauce blend. This quick and easy dish bursts with fresh basil aroma and bold flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Ready in under 30 minutes, Drunken Noodles promise a delightful culinary experience that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 8 oz flat rice noodles
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mixed colors)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions
- Soak rice noodles in hot water according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and sauté chicken for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Sriracha, and vegetable broth.
- Drain noodles and add to the skillet with chicken and veggies; pour sauce over everything and stir-fry until well combined.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
