Introduction

Are you craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor? If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, Pad See Ew is a must-try. This popular stir-fried rice noodle dish, traditionally made with chicken, vegetables, and a savory sauce, has become a global favorite. But what makes Pad See Ew so irresistible? Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets behind this delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving

Ingredients List

To make your very own Pad See Ew, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that blend together to create the iconic flavors that define this dish. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• Rice Noodles (8 oz / 225 g): Thin rice noodles work best for this recipe. Fresh noodles are ideal, but you can substitute with dried noodles if needed. Just make sure to soak them before cooking.
• Chicken Breast (1 lb / 450 g): Thinly sliced for quick cooking. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a more flavorful, juicy option.
• Vegetables (1 cup): A mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots will add crunch and color. Feel free to get creative with your veggies – mushrooms, snap peas, or spinach are great alternatives.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Minced, for that aromatic base.
• Egg (1 large): Adds richness and texture to the dish.
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): Provides the umami base for your stir-fry.
• Dark Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Gives the dish its deep color and richer flavor.
• Oyster Sauce (2 tbsp): A key ingredient for that signature savory-sweet taste.
• Sugar (1 tsp): Balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp): For stir-frying. You can substitute with sesame oil for a more pronounced flavor.
• Lime (1): For squeezing over the dish before serving, enhancing the flavor with a fresh citrus burst.

Substitutions:

• Tofu or Shrimp can be used instead of chicken for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.
• Tamari can replace soy sauce if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative.
• Stevia or honey can be swapped for sugar for a healthier, natural sweetener option.

Timing

When it comes to preparing Pad See Ew, the cooking time is quick but the results are delicious. Here’s a breakdown of the time needed:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (to slice vegetables, chicken, and soak noodles)
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (stir-frying and assembling)
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes (which is 20% less time than the average stir-fried noodle recipe)

This makes Pad See Ew a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Slice your chicken into thin strips, chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces, and soak the rice noodles (if you’re using dried noodles). Make sure your garlic is minced and your egg is ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In a pot of boiling water, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, or your chicken won’t sear properly.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Garlic

Add the garlic and vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are tender but still crunchy. This step ensures the veggies retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

Step 5: Push the Ingredients Aside and Scramble the Egg

Push the chicken and vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack the egg into the empty space and scramble it until fully cooked, then mix it in with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 6: Add the Sauces and Noodles

Now, it’s time to add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a teaspoon of sugar. Stir everything together until the noodles are coated with the sauce and well-mixed.

Step 7: Final Stir and Serve

Give everything one final stir to ensure even distribution of the sauce. Once the noodles are heated through and the flavors have melded, remove from heat.

Nutritional Information

Pad See Ew is a well-balanced dish that provides protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg

Health Insights:

• Pad See Ew is a good source of protein, especially if you use chicken or tofu.
• The dish offers essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, particularly vitamin C from bell peppers and broccoli.
• The addition of lime can help boost your immune system due to its vitamin C content.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While Pad See Ew is delicious as is, you can make it even healthier by making a few tweaks:

1. Use Brown Rice Noodles: If you’re looking for more fiber, swap in brown rice noodles for a whole-grain option.
2. Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content by adding leafy greens like spinach or kale, or include more colorful vegetables like zucchini and snap peas.
3. Reduce the Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce to reduce the sodium content.
4. Go Easy on the Sugar: You can cut the sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia or honey.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Pad See Ew in a way that feels special, consider these ideas:

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic burst.
• Serve with a Side of Chili Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, a small side of chili sauce or chili flakes will add spice to the dish.
• Pair with a Refreshing Drink: Try pairing Pad See Ew with a refreshing Thai iced tea or coconut water to complement the rich flavors of the stir-fry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too many ingredients at once, they won’t cook properly. Always give enough space for the chicken and vegetables to sear.
2. Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead of Time: Stir-fry is a quick process, so having all your ingredients ready before cooking is key to a smooth experience.
3. Not Stirring the Noodles: Make sure to stir the noodles into the sauce well, ensuring every strand is coated for maximum flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Pad See Ew is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• To Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or soy sauce to bring the dish back to life without it drying out.

You can also prep ingredients ahead of time by slicing the chicken and vegetables the day before.

For more delicious cooking ideas and recipes, be sure to explore the full collection on our website!

Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can create a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Pad See Ew combines tender chicken, crispy vegetables, and chewy rice noodles, all coated in a savory sauce that is hard to resist. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out. Share your feedback in the comments below and don’t forget to subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes!

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free noodles for Pad See Ew?

Yes! You can substitute with gluten-free rice noodles if needed.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version.

3. Can I freeze Pad See Ew leftovers?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.