Drunken Noodles
Introduction
Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, is a popular Thai dish known for its bold flavors and satisfying texture. This stir-fried noodle dish often features a mix of fresh vegetables, proteins, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. Enjoyed by many, it’s a great option for those looking to explore traditional Thai cuisine. In this recipe, we’ll focus on creating a delicious version of Drunken Noodles that you can enjoy at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Rice noodles – 8 ounces
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Shallots – 2, sliced
Bell pepper – 1, sliced
Carrot – 1, julienned
Green beans – ½ cup, cut into 1-inch pieces
Eggs – 2, lightly beaten
Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon
Thai basil – 1 cup, loosely packed
Chili flakes – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Lime – for serving
Prep Time
Preparation for Drunken Noodles involves gathering your ingredients and pre-cooking the noodles. This process typically takes about 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for Drunken Noodles is approximately 15-20 minutes. In total, you will spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 2-3 servings, making it perfect for a cozy meal with family or friends. Enjoy the bold flavors and vibrant colors of this classic dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients including rice noodles, vegetables, protein of your choice, and sauces to ensure everything is ready for cooking.
Soak the Noodles
Place the rice noodles in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 20-30 minutes until they are tender, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well to create a uniform sauce and set it aside.
Cook the Protein
Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu) and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Stir-fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add more oil if necessary. Toss in sliced bell peppers, onions, and any other vegetables you desire. Stir-fry for a few minutes until they are slightly tender.
Add the Noodles
Add the soaked and drained noodles to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss everything together to coat evenly.
Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked protein to the pan and mix all ingredients thoroughly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
Noodle Variations
You can use other types of noodles like egg noodles or udon if preferred, but preparation times may vary.
Vegetable Options
Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, or snap peas.
Adjusting Spice Level
To increase spice levels, consider adding chili paste or fresh sliced chilies according to taste.
Make Ahead
This dish can be prepared in advance. Reheat it in the pan with a bit of added water to prevent sticking.
Garnishing Suggestions
Chopped peanuts, cilantro, or green onions can enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.
Cook techniques
1. Stir-frying
Stir-frying is a quick cooking technique that utilizes high heat and minimal oil to cook ingredients quickly while retaining their flavor and texture. It’s essential to have all ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
2. Blanching
Blanching involves boiling vegetables briefly and then immediately plunging them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps to preserve color, flavor, and nutrients.
3. Marinating
Marinating enhances the flavor of proteins or vegetables by soaking them in a seasoned liquid for a period. This technique allows the ingredients to absorb the flavors, resulting in a more robust dish.
4. Using a Wok
A wok is an excellent tool for stir-frying. Its unique shape allows for even heat distribution and makes it easy to toss ingredients while cooking, promoting a quick and efficient cooking process.
5. Balancing flavors
Achieving a balance of flavors is crucial in creating a well-rounded dish. This involves understanding how to balance salty, sweet, sour, and spicy elements to enhance the overall taste experience.
FAQ
How do I make my drunken noodles spicier?
To increase the spice level in your drunken noodles, you can add more fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the dish while cooking.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, while traditional drunken noodles are made with wide rice noodles, you can substitute them with other types such as egg noodles or even whole wheat noodles based on your preference.
What proteins can I add to drunken noodles?
You can incorporate various proteins such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu to customize the dish according to your taste.
Can I make drunken noodles vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and replace it with more vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover drunken noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry in a pan until heated through.
Conclusion
Drunken noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and bold sauces makes this dish a favorite among lovers of Thai cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a street food staple or a homemade favorite, drunken noodles are sure to please.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pad Thai
A classic Thai dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, and topped with crushed peanuts and lime.
Green Curry Noodles
An exciting twist using green curry paste, coconut milk, and your choice of protein for a creamy and flavorful noodle dish.
Spicy Basil Noodles
Featuring fresh basil and a touch of heat, this dish is a must-try for spice lovers seeking a quick and delicious meal.
Thai Peanut Noodles
These noodles are tossed in a rich and creamy peanut sauce, perfect for those who love a nutty flavor in their dishes.
Veggie Stir-Fried Noodles
Packed with an assortment of colorful vegetables and flavored with soy sauce, this is a healthy option for noodle enthusiasts.
