Name: Delicious Drunken Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz wide rice noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 shallots, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste); 1 cup Thai basil leaves (or regular basil); Juice of half a lime

Are you ready to indulge in a tantalizing, bold dish that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand? This Drunken Noodles recipe, also known as Pad Kee Mao, is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that take minimal time to prepare. With wide rice noodles tossed in a spicy, savory sauce, complemented by tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and fragrant Thai basil, this dish will surely impress your family or guests. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, Drunken Noodles invites you to savor the delightful balance of spice and umami without spending hours in the kitchen.

One of the reasons this recipe is so beloved is its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on your dietary needs or preferences. Whether you decide to go for chicken, tofu, or a mix of vegetables, the result will still be a satisfying and wholesome meal. Plus, the vibrant colors and aromatic ingredients make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to whip up a delightful Thai experience in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Drunken Noodles Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Rich, savory sauce with a spicy kick – satisfies all your cravings.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe for various dietary needs – use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Restaurant-Quality: Delivers that authentic Thai taste right in your home.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables for a balanced meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out in advance. This will save you time and make the cooking process smoother. Have a large wok or skillet ready, as this will allow you to stir-fry the ingredients at high heat without overcrowding. A spatula or wooden spoon will be essential for tossing everything together, ensuring that each component gets coated in that delicious sauce.

Additionally, prepping your vegetables is key. Make sure the garlic and shallots are minced and sliced thinly for even cooking, while the chicken should be cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook through quickly. By having everything prepped and within reach, you’ll be able to quickly execute this delightful Drunken Noodles recipe without any hiccups.

Ingredients

8 oz wide rice noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 shallots, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
1 cup Thai basil leaves (or regular basil)
Juice of half a lime

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by cooking the wide rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in water for a few minutes until they are tender yet still al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to avoid mushy noodles later on; set them aside while you work on the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili paste. This mixture will act as your flavor base, bringing together a blend that’s both savory and slightly sweet, with a kick. Stir the ingredients well to ensure they are fully incorporated, and set this sauce aside for later use.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sliced shallots. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant—the goal here is to infuse the oil with their flavors without burning the garlic.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is nicely browned and cooked through. This step ensures that your protein is tender and juicy, which is essential for a satisfying meal.

Step 5: Add the Veggies

Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while still retaining some crispness. This balance of textures will add a delightful crunch to every bite.

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Now it’s time to add the reserved noodles to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over everything, tossing gently to coat the noodles and vegetables evenly. This step is where the magic happens—make sure every noodle is enveloped in that rich sauce!

Step 7: Incorporate Basil and Lime

Finally, add the fresh Thai basil leaves to the skillet. Gently fold them into the mixture until they start to wilt, which should only take a minute or less. Finish your dish with a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Drunken Noodles.

Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, quick Thai dinner!

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or firm tofu for variations that suit your palate.
Vegetables: Feel free to swap in other veggies like snap peas, carrots, or even bok choy for added nutrients.
Spices: For an extra kick, incorporate more chili paste or fresh Thai chilies according to your heat preference.

Cooking Notes

Be careful not to overcook the noodles; they should remain firm to hold up in the stir-fry.
If using dried basil, decrease the amount since it tends to have a more concentrated flavor compared to fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Drunken Noodles with a side of fresh spring rolls to start your meal!
For a refreshing drink, serve with iced Thai tea or a light beer that complements the spiciness.

Tips

Prep all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Adjust the levels of sauce components according to your taste; feel free to experiment until you find your perfect balance.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 430
Protein: 29g
Sodium: 980mg

FAQs

Can I make Drunken Noodles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the noodles and vegetables ahead of time. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to cook the dish fresh just before serving.

What if I can’t find Thai basil?

If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil can be used as a substitute, although it may not offer the same unique flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring the noodles are also gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they don’t overcook.

Conclusion

This Drunken Noodles recipe is not only quick and easy to whip up but also bursting with delightful flavors that transport your taste buds to Thailand with every bite. With the ability to customize based on your personal preferences, it’s a dish you can enjoy over and over again. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving something delicious for dinner, Drunken Noodles can deliver comfort, flavor, and satisfaction all in one bowl. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your experiences, and explore various adaptations to make it your own. Enjoy your culinary journey with this easy Thai classic!