Drunken Noodles

Drunken noodles, also known as Pad Kee Mao, is a flavorful and spicy Thai dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With a perfect balance of heat, sweet, and savory flavors, this dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Bursting with bold and aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Quick and easy prep time, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
3. Versatile and customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.

Ingredient Notes:

• Wide rice noodles: Provides the base for this dish, with a chewy and satisfying texture.
• Chicken thighs or chicken breast: Adds protein and a meaty flavor to the noodles.
• Thai red chili peppers: Adds heat and spice to the dish, adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
• Holy basil: Infuses a unique and aromatic flavor, but regular basil can be used as a substitute.
• Oyster sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor, soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
• Fish sauce: Provides a salty and savory depth of flavor, soy sauce can be used as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Marinate the chicken with soy sauce and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet, then add garlic, onion, and chili peppers.
4. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned.
5. Stir in the bok choy and holy basil until wilted.
6. Mix together the ingredients for the stir fry sauce and pour over the noodles.
7. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

• For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu for the chicken.
• Make a big batch and store leftovers in an airtight container for a quick meal later in the week.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili peppers.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use a high-quality fish sauce for an authentic flavor.
2. Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Drunken noodles pair well with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a refreshing cucumber salad. For drinks, try a cold Thai iced tea or a crisp lager beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the noodles and prevent them from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

• While wide rice noodles are traditional, you can substitute with egg noodles or even spaghetti.

1. How spicy is this dish?

• The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or fewer chili peppers.

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance for quicker cooking.

1. Is holy basil necessary for this recipe?

• While holy basil adds a unique flavor, regular basil can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion:

Drunken noodles are a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a quick and spicy meal or looking to impress your guests with authentic Thai flavors, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!

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