Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of drunken noodles, a beloved Thai dish that combines stir-fried noodles with fresh vegetables and your choice of protein. The name derives from the myth that this dish is perfect for soaking up the effects of a night out. With a harmony of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces wide rice noodles
- 1 cup chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Thai chili paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, and 50g carbohydrates. This nutritional breakdown is based on the specified serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Soak rice noodles in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Incorporate bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the soaked noodles to the wok, mixing well with the vegetables.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste; toss to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavors.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious drunken noodles!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize drunken noodles according to your preference. Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra crunch.
Serving and Pairings
Drunken noodles pair beautifully with Thai iced tea or a light salad. You can also serve it alongside spring rolls or dumplings for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover drunken noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the noodles may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can result in a mushy texture.
- Not using enough oil can cause sticking in the wok.
- Skipping the soaking step may lead to uneven cooking.
- Adding sauce too early can make the noodles soggy.
- Not stirring frequently can lead to burning.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili paste.
- Experiment with different proteins and vegetables.
- Make sure to use a hot wok for a perfect stir-fry.
FAQs
What are drunken noodles made of?
Drunken noodles are typically made with rice noodles, a protein source like chicken or shrimp, a variety of vegetables, and flavorful sauces such as soy and oyster sauce. The dish is known for its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients.
Are drunken noodles spicy?
The spiciness of drunken noodles can vary depending on the amount of chili paste used. You can adjust the spiciness to your preference by adding more or less chili paste or using milder sauces.
Can drunken noodles be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make drunken noodles vegetarian by substituting the chicken or shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini.
How do I store leftover drunken noodles?
Leftover drunken noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
What is the origin of drunken noodles?
Drunken noodles, known as “Pad Kee Mao” in Thai, are a popular dish in Thailand. The name suggests that the dish is ideal for soaking up alcohol, making it a favorite late-night snack among locals.
Can I freeze drunken noodles?
Freezing drunken noodles is not recommended as the texture of the noodles may become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with drunken noodles?
Drunken noodles are often served with Thai iced tea or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with spring rolls or dumplings.
Conclusion
Drunken noodles are a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of Thai cuisine. With their vibrant flavors and quick preparation, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal at home or served at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the world of Thai flavors and savor every bite of these delicious noodles!
Drunken Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 ounces wide rice noodles
- 1 cup chicken breast sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Thai chili paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Soak rice noodles in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Incorporate bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the soaked noodles to the wok, mixing well with the vegetables.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste; toss to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the flavors.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious drunken noodles!
Nutrition
