drunken noodles recipe.

 

🍲 Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) Recipe – Spicy Thai Stir-Fry

Make authentic Thai Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) at home! This quick stir-fry combines wide rice noodles, chicken, Thai basil, and a spicy-savory sauce — ready in under 30 minutes.

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🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 10 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 3–4

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📝 Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp lime juice (optional, for freshness)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 8 oz (225 g) wide rice noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1–2 Thai red chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup chicken breast or tofu, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Noodles
   Soak the rice noodles in warm water until soft (or cook per package instructions). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauces, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice.

3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics
   Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and chilies; stir-fry until fragrant.

4. Add Protein & Veggies
   Add chicken or tofu and cook until browned. Then add onion and bell pepper; stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.

5. Combine Everything
   Add the noodles and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together until noodles are evenly coated.

6. Finish with Thai Basil
   Stir in Thai basil leaves until wilted. Serve hot immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with Thai iced tea or cucumber salad to balance the spice.
• Top with crushed peanuts or lime wedges for extra flavor.
• Pair with spring rolls or fried tofu for a complete meal.

💡 Tips

• Use fresh wide rice noodles for the best texture.
• Adjust spice level — more chilies for extra heat.
• You can substitute Thai basil with sweet basil if unavailable.
• For a vegan version, use soy sauce instead of fish sauce and tofu as protein.

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❄️ Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen noodles.
• Avoid freezing — the texture may turn mushy.

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❓ FAQs

Q1. Why are they called “Drunken Noodles”?
Despite the name, there’s no alcohol! The dish is so spicy that it’s said to “wake up” even someone who’s drunk.

Q2. What protein works best?
Chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu — all work well depending on your preference.

Q3. Can I use spaghetti instead of rice noodles?
Yes, in a pinch. But authentic Pad Kee Mao uses wide rice noodles for a chewy texture.

Q4. How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit Thai chilies and use sweet peppers for mild flavor.

Q5. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and stir-fry fresh before serving for best texture.

🔗 Similar Recipes to Try :

1. Pad Thai Recipe – Sweet and tangy classic Thai noodle dish.
2. Pad See Ew Recipe – Thai stir-fried noodles with soy sauce.
3. Thai Fried Rice Recipe – Simple and aromatic Thai-style rice.
4. Massaman Curry Recipe – Mild and flavorful curry with potatoes.
5. Thai Basil Chicken Recipe – Spicy stir-fry with garlic and basil.