how to make drunken noodles

How to Make Drunken Noodles: A Guide for Home Cooks

One of the most popular and flavorful Thai dishes is Drunken Noodles, known for its spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Despite its name, Drunken Noodles do not actually contain alcohol but get their name from the belief that they are the perfect cure for a hangover. This dish, also known as Pad Kee Mao, is a stir-fried noodle dish that is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz wide rice noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup Thai basil leaves
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (adjust based on your spice preference
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sugar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
  3. Add the garlic and shallot and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the bell peppers and Thai chilies, and continue to stir-fry for another minute.
  5. Add the cooked noodles to the wok along with the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Toss everything together to combine.
  6. Add the Thai basil leaves and bean sprouts, mix well, and sauté for another minute until the basil leaves are wilted.
  7. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Tips:

  • For an extra kick, you can add more Thai chilies or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce.
  • If you are a vegetarian, you can omit the oyster sauce and fish sauce and use vegetarian alternatives.
  • Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Now that you have mastered the art of making Drunken Noodles at home, you can enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish anytime without having to visit a Thai restaurant. Impress your family and friends with your culinary skills and treat them to an authentic Thai dining experience!