How to Make Pad See Ew: A Fun Thai Recipe

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

What Is Pad See Ew?

Pad See Ew (say it like “pad see you”) means “stir-fried soy sauce noodles” in Thai. It’s one of the most popular dishes in Thailand and for good reason! It’s quick to make, tastes amazing, and fills you up. Imagine chewy noodles coated in a sweet and savory sauce, paired with tender veggies and juicy protein. Yum, right?

“Pad See Ew is like a warm hug for your taste buds.”

A Quick Look at Pad See Ew’s History

Pad See Ew comes from Thailand, where street food is a big deal. Vendors cook it in woks over high heat, giving it that smoky, charred flavor. It’s a dish that brings people together—simple, yet packed with taste.

Why Do People Love Pad See Ew?

What’s not to love? It’s sweet, salty, and savory all at once. Plus, it’s super customizable. Don’t like chicken? Use tofu. Want more spice? Add chili flakes. It’s your dish, your rules. And here’s a secret: kids love it too!

What You Need to Make Pad See Ew Recipe

Fresh ingredients like noodles and vegetables ready for cooking
“Fresh ingredients prepared for making Pad See Ew.”

Before we get cooking, let’s gather everything we need. Don’t worry; the ingredients are easy to find. You might even have some of them in your kitchen already!

The Noodles: Picking the Right Kind

The star of the show is the noodles. Traditionally, Pad See Ew uses wide rice noodles. They’re flat, chewy, and perfect for soaking up the sauce. You can find these in the Asian aisle of most grocery stores. Can’t find them? No problem! You can use fettuccine or any wide pasta as a substitute.

Proteins: Chicken, Beef, or Tofu?

You can make Pad See Ew with chicken, beef, pork, or tofu. Chicken is the most common choice, but tofu is perfect if you want a vegetarian version. Just pick what you like best!

Sauces and Spices to Use

The sauce is where the magic happens. Here’s what you’ll need:

IngredientQuantity
Soy Sauce3 tbsp
Dark Soy Sauce1 tbsp
Oyster Sauce2 tbsp
White Sugar1 tsp
Vegetable Oil2 tbsp
Optional: Chili Flakes1 tsp (or more!)

Veggies That Work Best

Pad See Ew is usually made with Chinese broccoli, which has a slightly bitter taste that balances the sweet sauce. If you can’t find Chinese broccoli, use regular broccoli, spinach, or bok choy instead. The more greens, the better!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition in a serving of Pad See Ew (made with chicken):

NutrientAmount
Calories450 kcal
Protein25 g
Carbohydrates50 g
Fat15 g
Fiber4 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, easy, and tastes like something straight out of a Thai restaurant. Plus, you can make it your own. Want extra sauce? Go for it. Like crunchy veggies? Add more. Cooking Pad See Ew is like painting—you get to be the artist!

Steps to Cook Pad See Ew

Noodles being stir-fried in a wok with fresh ingredients
“Stir-frying Pad See Ew to perfection in a hot wok.”

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to cook! Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking; this recipe is as easy as it is tasty. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time.

Step 1: Getting the Ingredients Ready

Before you start cooking, make sure everything is prepped. Trust me, this will make your life so much easier. Here’s what to do:

  • Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 20 minutes if they’re dried. If you have fresh noodles, just separate them gently.
  • Wash and chop your veggies. If you’re using Chinese broccoli, separate the stems from the leaves. Stems take longer to cook, so we’ll add those first.
  • Cut your protein into bite-sized pieces. Whether it’s chicken, beef, or tofu, smaller pieces cook faster and absorb more flavor.
  • Mix the sauces together in a small bowl: soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This will be your magical sauce!

See? Prepping is simple, and it makes the cooking part a breeze!

Step 2: Cooking the Noodles

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in your noodles. Stir them gently to prevent sticking. Pour in about half of the sauce mixture and mix well. Cook for about 2 minutes, then set the noodles aside. Don’t worry; they’ll go back into the pan later!

Step 3: Stir-Frying the Veggies and Protein

Using the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add your protein (chicken, beef, or tofu) and cook until it’s fully done. This should take about 5 minutes for chicken or beef. Remove the protein and set it aside.

Next, toss in the stems of the Chinese broccoli and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add the leaves and cook for another minute. If you’re using other veggies like spinach or bok choy, they’ll cook even faster.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

Now comes the fun part—putting everything together! Add the noodles and protein back into the pan with the veggies. Pour in the remaining sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the sauce coats every noodle and veggie. Cook for another 2-3 minutes over high heat. You’ll start to see the noodles get a lovely caramelized color. That’s when you know it’s ready!

“Cooking Pad See Ew is like building a puzzle. Each piece fits perfectly to create a delicious masterpiece!”

Tips for Perfect Pad See Ew Recipe

Want to make sure your Pad See Ew turns out just right? Here are some tips to help you nail it every time:

How to Keep the Noodles from Sticking

Sticking noodles can be a problem, but there’s an easy fix! Make sure to use enough oil in the pan, and stir frequently. Also, don’t over-soak the noodles. They should be soft but not mushy before cooking.

How to Balance Flavors Just Right

Pad See Ew is all about balance. If it’s too salty, add a little sugar or lime juice. If it’s too sweet, add a splash of soy sauce. Tasting as you go is the secret to perfect flavor!

How to Avoid Overcooked Veggies

Vegetables cook quickly, especially leafy greens. Add them last and keep the heat high. Stir-frying is fast, so don’t walk away from the pan. A few minutes is all you need!

Fun Ways to Change the Recipe

Pad See Ew is super versatile. You can customize it to fit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few fun ideas:

Making It Less Spicy or More Spicy

Want it mild? Skip the chili flakes. Like it fiery? Add extra chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce. You’re in charge of the spice level!

Using Gluten-Free Noodles

If you’re avoiding gluten, no problem. Use gluten-free rice noodles and check the labels on your sauces to make sure they’re gluten-free too.

Trying It with Different Veggies

Don’t have Chinese broccoli? No worries! Try it with bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Pad See Ew is like a blank canvas—you can paint it with whatever veggies you like.

Why This Recipe Is So Fun to Make

Cooking Pad See Ew is like going on a little adventure. You get to chop, stir, and mix, all while creating something delicious. Plus, the smell in your kitchen? Absolutely amazing!

Serving and Enjoying Your Pad See Ew Recipe

A colorful plate of noodles with fresh garnishes
“A flavorful plate of Pad See Ew ready to enjoy.”

Congratulations! You’ve made a delicious dish of Pad See Ew. Now comes the best part—eating it! But before you dig in, let’s talk about how to serve it like a pro and pair it with other foods for a full Thai-inspired meal.

What to Eat with Pad See Ew

Pad See Ew is great on its own, but if you want to make a full meal, here are some ideas:

  • Spring Rolls: Crispy veggie spring rolls are a perfect appetizer.
  • Tom Yum Soup: A tangy Thai soup that balances the sweetness of the noodles.
  • Side Salad: A fresh cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness.

And don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top of your noodles for extra flavor and texture. A wedge of lime on the side is also a nice touch.

Drinks That Go Well with Pad See Ew

Wondering what to drink with your noodles? Here are some refreshing options:

  • Thai Iced Tea: Its creamy sweetness is a classic pairing with savory dishes.
  • Lemonade: The citrusy flavor cuts through the richness of the noodles.
  • Watermelon Juice: Light and hydrating, it’s a fun tropical choice!

Saving Leftovers and Reheating

Made too much Pad See Ew? No problem! This dish keeps well and tastes just as good the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

How to Store Pad See Ew

Let your noodles cool completely before putting them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

How to Reheat Without Losing the Taste

Reheating noodles can be tricky, but I’ve got you covered. Here’s how to do it:

  • On the Stove: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a little oil, and stir-fry the noodles for 3-4 minutes.
  • In the Microwave: Place the noodles in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.

And there you go—leftovers that taste just as amazing as the day you made them!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pad See Ew Recipe

Still have questions? Here are some common ones people ask about this dish.

What’s the Difference Between Drunken Noodles and Pad See Ew?

Drunken noodles are spicy, with chili and basil as key flavors, while Pad See Ew is sweet and savory with soy sauce as the main ingredient. Drunken noodles are bold; Pad See Ew is comforting.

Is Pad See Ew Unhealthy?

It depends! Homemade Pad See Ew can be healthy if you use less oil, lean protein, and plenty of veggies. Restaurant versions may have more sodium and calories.

What’s the Difference Between Pad Thai and Pad See Ew?

Pad Thai is tangy and nutty, made with tamarind and peanuts, while Pad See Ew is sweet and savory with soy sauce. Pad Thai uses thinner noodles, while Pad See Ew has wider ones.

What’s the Difference Between Chow Fun and Pad See Ew?

Chow Fun is a Chinese dish with a smoky, savory flavor and often includes beef. Pad See Ew is Thai, sweeter, and uses soy sauce and Chinese broccoli for a unique taste.

Before You Go: Explore More Delicious Ideas

If you loved learning how to make Pad See Ew, you’ll enjoy diving into these related recipes and ideas:

Wrapping It All Up

And there you have it—a step-by-step guide to making the best Pad See Ew at home! This dish is perfect for family dinners, quick lunches, or impressing your friends with your cooking skills. It’s fun, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

“Cooking is like crafting a story, and Pad See Ew is one chapter you’ll want to read over and over again.”

Why You’ll Love Making Pad See Ew

Happy cooking! 🍜


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Wide rice noodles with chicken and greens being picked up with chopsticks

Pad See Ew Recipe


  • Author: Naomi
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2-3
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Pad See Ew recipe is a sweet, savory, and satisfying Thai noodle dish that’s easy to make at home. Packed with chewy rice noodles, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.


Ingredients

  • Wide Rice Noodles: 8 oz (soaked or fresh)
  • Chicken Breast: 1 cup (thinly sliced)
  • Chinese Broccoli: 1 cup (stems separated from leaves)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
  • Soy Sauce: 3 tbsp
  • Dark Soy Sauce: 1 tbsp
  • Oyster Sauce: 2 tbsp
  • White Sugar: 1 tsp
  • Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp
  • Egg: 1 large (optional)
  • Chili Flakes: 1 tsp (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Ingredients

    • If using dried noodles, soak them in warm water for 20 minutes, then drain. If using fresh noodles, separate them gently.
    • Thinly slice the chicken and chop the Chinese broccoli, separating the stems from the leaves.
  • Make the Sauce

    • In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  • Cook the Noodles

    • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add the noodles and half of the sauce mixture. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, then set aside.
  • Stir-Fry the Chicken and Veggies

    • Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok. Cook the chicken slices until golden and fully cooked. Toss in garlic and Chinese broccoli stems, cooking for 1 minute. Add the leaves and cook for another minute.
  • Combine and Serve

    • Add the noodles back into the wok, pour in the remaining sauce, and stir everything together. Optional: crack an egg into the wok and scramble it into the noodles. Cook for 2-3 more minutes.
    • Serve hot, garnished with chili flakes or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for variations.
  • Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles for a gluten-free version.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per Serving (approximate)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 1200 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: Thai noodles, easy stir-fry, homemade Thai food

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