Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles, also known as "Pad Kee Mao," are a vibrant and flavorful dish that will instantly transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Thailand. This indulgent noodle dish is brimming with fresh vegetables and bold flavors, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re craving something savory for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles is not only a delicious culinary adventure but also an opportunity to customize your meal to suit your taste preferences. The combination of tender rice noodles, colorful vegetables, and an aromatic sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Make Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish. The ingredients are simple to find, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Fresh basil leaves
• Lime wedges for serving

Directions

1. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 20 minutes or until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and chilies, stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add the drained rice noodles to the skillet.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Pour over the noodles and toss everything together to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving.
8. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for Success with Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

• Choose the Right Noodles: Look for flat rice noodles for the best texture in this dish. They’re typically labeled as "pad thai" or "drunken noodles" noodles in stores.
• Prep Ahead: To save time, you can slice your vegetables and soak the noodles ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
• Control the Heat: The number of red chilies you use can significantly affect the dish’s spiciness. Start with one if you’re unsure and add more according to your preference!
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Aim for a tender-crisp texture to maintain the vibrant color and nutrients.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Thai basil adds an authentic aroma, but regular basil works well too if that’s what you have.
• Leftovers Close at Hand: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge for a quick meal the next day.

Flavor Variations for Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

• Add Protein: Feel free to add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein. Just ensure that you cook the protein before adding the vegetables.
• Veggie Substitutions: You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand—broccoli, zucchini, or bok choy work beautifully in this recipe.
• Extra Saucy: If you prefer a saucier dish, consider doubling the sauce ingredients for a more flavorful coating on the noodles.
• Make it a Stir-Fry: Add nuts like cashews or peanuts at the end for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes if you crave extra heat.

Serving Suggestions for Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

These noodles can stand alone as a filling main dish but also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:

• Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls can complement the softness of the noodles, adding an extra layer of texture to your meal.
• Thai Salad: A light, refreshing Thai salad with a tangy dressing makes a perfect side to balance the richness of the noodles.
• Kimchi: If you love a bit of sour and spicy, kimchi adds a delightful kick alongside the noodles.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

To store your leftover Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you want to freeze your noodles, it’s best to do so before adding fresh basil to avoid brown, wilted leaves. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to help revive the noodles.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

FAQ About Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles

Can I make Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, you can simply omit the fish sauce and substitute it with additional soy sauce or a vegetarian oyster sauce. Tofu or a variety of veggies will make a delicious substitute for protein.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make your Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (also known as tamari) and ensure that the rice noodles you select are certified gluten-free.

How spicy are Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles?

The spice level can vary depending on how many red chilies you add. Start with one chili and taste the dish as you go. If you like it spicier, add more to suit your palate!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While this dish is at its best when served freshly cooked, you can prep the ingredients (like chopping vegetables and soaking the noodles) ahead of time. This way, cooking time is quick once you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best type of rice noodle to use for this recipe?

Flat rice noodles are traditionally used for Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles. Look for wide rice noodles that are labeled as "Pad Thai" noodles or "drunken noodles" at your local Asian grocer.

Final Thoughts

Street Style Thai Drunken Noodles are not just a meal; they’re an experience that will fill your home with fragrant aromas and delightful flavors. This dish is easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a way to impress guests, this noodle dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; a delicious adventure awaits!

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