Introduction to Pad See Ew
Pad See Ew is a beloved Thai stir-fry noodle dish that offers a balance of savory, slightly sweet flavors and delightful textures. The name translates to “stir-fried soy sauce noodles,” and it’s a common street food in Thailand. What makes Pad See Ew stand out is the use of flat rice noodles, which soak up the bold sauce made from soy and oyster sauce. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make a delicious homemade Pad See Ew that will leave your family and friends craving more.
Ingredients for Homemade Pad See Ew
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this dish, along with their quantities. These ingredients should be easily found in most supermarkets or Asian grocery stores:
- 8 oz flat rice noodles: These wide, flat noodles are the heart of the dish. You can find them in the Asian section of most grocery stores.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil: This is for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables. You can use any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thin: Chicken breast works perfectly for this recipe as it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. Feel free to substitute with beef, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for adding depth to the dish.
- 2 eggs: Scrambling the eggs directly in the pan adds a rich texture to the noodles.
- 1 cup broccoli or Chinese broccoli, chopped: Broccoli or Chinese broccoli provides a delightful crunch and balances the dish with some greens.
- 3 tbsp soy sauce: This forms the base of the sauce, providing that signature salty, umami flavor.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a layer of savory complexity to the dish.
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional): This thick soy sauce deepens the color and gives the dish a slightly sweeter taste.
- 1 tsp sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance out the salty sauces.
- 1/2 tsp white pepper (optional): For a slight peppery kick.
- Lime wedges for garnish (optional): A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing citrusy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
Directions and Preparation Method
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a perfect Pad See Ew right at home. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 15 minutes, this dish is quick to whip up, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
First, you’ll want to prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking the noodles in hot water for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft but still firm to the bite (al dente). Drain the noodles and set them aside. Be sure not to overcook the noodles, as they will cook further in the stir-fry process.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then, add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink in the center.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Once the chicken is fully cooked, push it to the side of the pan to make room for the eggs. Crack two eggs directly into the pan and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Incorporating the eggs at this stage adds an extra layer of texture to the dish.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
After the eggs are cooked, toss in the chopped broccoli or Chinese broccoli. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes until they become tender but still retain a bit of crunch. If you prefer softer vegetables, you can steam them slightly before adding them to the pan.
Step 5: Sauce it Up
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, and white pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken, eggs, and broccoli, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan and gently toss everything to combine, ensuring the noodles soak up all the flavors from the sauce. Let the dish cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the pan from heat and serve the Pad See Ew hot. Garnish with lime wedges on the side for those who enjoy a fresh squeeze of citrus. You can also add some extra soy sauce or chili flakes for a spicier kick.
FAQs About Homemade Pad See Ew
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pad See Ew at home:
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
While flat rice noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with other types of noodles if you prefer. Udon or even spaghetti can work in a pinch, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
2. Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein. Be sure to use vegetarian oyster sauce or a mushroom-based sauce for the same umami flavor.
3. How Do I Prevent the Noodles from Sticking Together?
To prevent the noodles from sticking, make sure not to overcook them during the soaking process. You can also toss the cooked noodles in a bit of oil before adding them to the pan. Stir-frying them quickly helps keep them from clumping.
4. Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Pad See Ew is a versatile dish, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of their cooking times so that all the veggies are cooked evenly.
5. What Can I Use Instead of Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
6. How Can I Make the Dish Spicier?
To add some heat, you can stir in some chili flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce. You can also serve it with a side of Thai chili vinegar for an authentic Thai touch.
Conclusion
Homemade Pad See Ew is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests. The combination of chewy rice noodles, tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory soy-based sauce is irresistible. Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to swap ingredients to suit your taste.