Pad See Ew

Introduction

Pad See Ew is a popular Thai street food dish that features wide rice noodles stir-fried with protein, vegetables, and a savory soy-based sauce. It’s loved for its delicious smoky flavor and chewy texture, making it a favorite among many Asian cuisine enthusiasts. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare at home, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality Thai food without stepping out of your kitchen.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Rice noodles – 250 grams
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
Dark soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Chicken, sliced – 200 grams
Eggs – 2
Broccoli florets – 1 cup
Chinese broccoli or Bok choy – 1 cup
Sugar – 1 teaspoon
White pepper – to taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients. This includes flat rice noodles, protein of your choice (like chicken, shrimp, or tofu), vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers), soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and garlic.

Step 2: Soak the Noodles

In a bowl, soak the flat rice noodles in warm water for about 30 minutes or until they are soft. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat the pan.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Protein

Add minced garlic to the hot wok and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add your choice of protein and stir-fry until cooked through.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Introduce the vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 6: Add Noodles and Sauces

Add the soaked rice noodles to the wok. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles and vegetables are well-coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Stir-Fry on High Heat

Increase the heat to high. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the noodles have a nice char.

Step 8: Serve

Once everything is cooked and well combined, transfer the pad see ew to a plate. Serve immediately and enjoy your dish.

Notes

Note 1: Noodle Type

Use fresh flat rice noodles for better texture, but dried noodles can work as well if soaked properly.

Note 2: Protein Options

This dish is versatile; feel free to substitute chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with tofu.

Note 3: Veggie Choices

You can customize the vegetables based on your preference; popular choices include bok choy and Chinese broccoli.

Note 4: Sauce Adjustments

Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce based on taste preference.

Note 5: Cooking Time

Ensure not to overcook the noodles to maintain their texture; a quick stir-fry should suffice.

Cook Techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a high-heat cooking method that involves quickly cooking food in a small amount of oil while stirring constantly. This technique helps retain the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients.

Choosing the Right Noodles

Using wide rice noodles is essential for Pad See Ew. These noodles should be pre-cooked and ideally fresh, as they absorb the flavors of the other ingredients better than dried noodles.

Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time

To ensure a smooth cooking process, it is important to have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This includes slicing vegetables and proteins to the appropriate size.

Controlling the Heat

Maintaining the right heat level is crucial in stir-frying. Start with high heat to sear the meat and vegetables quickly, then adjust as needed to avoid burning.

Marinating Proteins

Marinating the meat enhances its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade can consist of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of sugar for added depth.

Seasoning with Sauce

A key aspect of Pad See Ew is the sauce, typically made with soy sauce and oyster sauce. It’s important to balance the salty and sweet elements for a well-rounded flavor.

FAQ

Can I use other types of noodles for Pad See Ew?

While wide rice noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types, but it may alter the final taste and texture.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, soy sauce can be used as a substitute, though it may require additional seasoning to achieve a similar flavor.

How do I prevent my noodles from sticking together?

To prevent sticking, make sure to rinse the cooked noodles with cold water and toss them with a bit of oil before stir-frying.

Can I make Pad See Ew ahead of time?

Pad See Ew is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance. When reheating, add a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out.

What proteins work well in Pad See Ew?

Common proteins include chicken, beef, or shrimp, but tofu is also a great vegetarian option that absorbs the flavors well.

Conclusion

Pad See Ew is a delicious Thai stir-fried noodle dish that brings together the rich flavors of soy sauce, vegetables, and your choice of protein. It is easy to prepare and serves as a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any time of the week. Its unique combination of textures and tastes make it a favorite among Thai cuisine lovers. With just a few key ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can create this authentic dish at home and impress your family and friends.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Pad Thai

Try making Pad Thai, another classic Thai dish that features stir-fried rice noodles, a sweet and tangy tamarind sauce, and fresh vegetables, topped with peanuts and lime.

Drunken Noodles

Consider preparing Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao), which are spicy, wide rice noodles stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and your choice of protein, seasoned with basil, garlic, and chili.

Green Curry Noodles

Experiment with Green Curry Noodles by incorporating green curry paste into your stir-fried noodles for a rich, aromatic flavor that combines well with coconut milk and vegetables.

Sesame Noodles

For a different twist, try Sesame Noodles, which feature noodles tossed in a savory sesame sauce, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Vietnamese Pho

Explore the flavors of Vietnamese Pho, a fragrant broth-based noodle soup filled with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and your choice of meat, offering a warm and comforting alternative.