Drunken Noodles

Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) is a bold and spicy Thai stir-fry made with wide rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and your choice of protein, all tossed in a flavorful sauce. Despite the name, there’s no alcohol in this dish—it’s believed to get its name from its intense flavors, often enjoyed with a cold drink. The combination of garlic, chili, and basil gives these noodles a fragrant, slightly spicy kick, while the savory sauce balances everything out. Drunken noodles are quick to prepare, making them an ideal weeknight meal that brings the vibrant taste of Thai street food right to your table.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz wide rice noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 Thai chilies, minced (adjust to taste)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets or baby corn
• 1 cup protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegetarian)
• 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and Thai chilies, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the protein of your choice (chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef) and stir-fry until cooked through.
4. Toss in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and broccoli, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sugar. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and protein in the pan.
6. Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are coated with the sauce.
7. Stir in the fresh Thai basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly from the heat.
8. Serve the drunken noodles hot, with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this spicy and aromatic Thai dish!