Hey guys! Ever found yourself staring at a Thai menu, utterly confused between Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles? You're not alone! These two dishes are incredibly popular and equally delicious, but they have some key differences that set them apart. Let's dive into the delicious world of Thai noodles and break down everything you need to know about Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles, including a fantastic recipe for each! Whether you're a seasoned Thai food lover or a curious newbie, this guide will help you master these iconic dishes. So, grab your chopsticks and let's get cooking!

What is Pad See Ew?

Pad See Ew, which translates to "stir-fried soy sauce noodles," is a staple in Thai cuisine. This dish is characterized by its wide rice noodles, Chinese broccoli (or regular broccoli), egg, and a savory-sweet sauce. The noodles are stir-fried to perfection, achieving a slightly charred and smoky flavor that's simply irresistible. The sauce is a harmonious blend of soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar, creating a rich and balanced taste that coats every strand of noodle. One of the defining features of Pad See Ew is its simplicity; it's a comforting and satisfying dish that highlights the quality of its ingredients and the skill of the cook. You'll often find variations with different proteins like chicken, pork, beef, or tofu, making it a versatile option for any palate.

The beauty of Pad See Ew lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The wide rice noodles provide a chewy and satisfying base, while the Chinese broccoli adds a slightly bitter and crunchy element. The egg contributes a creamy richness, and the savory-sweet sauce ties everything together in perfect harmony. When made well, Pad See Ew is a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you craving more. Traditionally, Pad See Ew is considered a milder dish compared to its spicier cousin, Drunken Noodles. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle and comforting flavor profile. However, don't let its mildness fool you – Pad See Ew is packed with umami and depth, making it a truly satisfying meal. Whether you're ordering it from your favorite Thai restaurant or making it at home, Pad See Ew is a dish that's sure to please.

To truly appreciate Pad See Ew, it's essential to understand the role of each ingredient. The wide rice noodles, also known as sen yai, are the foundation of the dish and provide a substantial bite. They need to be cooked just right – not too soft, not too firm – to achieve the perfect texture. The Chinese broccoli, with its slightly bitter leaves and crunchy stalks, adds a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sauce. If you can't find Chinese broccoli, regular broccoli or even kale can be used as a substitute. The egg, often scrambled directly into the noodles, adds a creamy element that helps to bind the dish together. And of course, the sauce is the star of the show, providing the signature savory-sweet flavor that defines Pad See Ew. When all these elements come together, you have a dish that is both comforting and complex, simple yet satisfying.

What are Drunken Noodles?

Drunken Noodles, also known as Pad Kee Mao, is the bolder, spicier cousin of Pad See Ew. The name "Drunken Noodles" is believed to come from the dish's ability to cure a hangover, or perhaps because it's so delicious you could eat it while drunk! Unlike Pad See Ew, Drunken Noodles boasts a fiery kick, thanks to the generous use of chili peppers, garlic, and holy basil. This dish features wide rice noodles similar to Pad See Ew, but the flavor profile is significantly different. Instead of the savory-sweet notes of Pad See Ew, Drunken Noodles offers a complex blend of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that will awaken your taste buds. The dish typically includes vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions, adding a vibrant array of colors and textures.

The key to Drunken Noodles is the holy basil, also known as Thai basil. This herb has a distinctive anise-like flavor that adds a unique fragrance and taste to the dish. It's important to use holy basil rather than regular basil, as the flavor profiles are quite different. The chili peppers provide the heat, which can be adjusted to your preference. Some recipes also include fish sauce, which adds a salty and umami-rich element. Drunken Noodles is a dish that's not for the faint of heart; it's bold, flavorful, and packed with a punch. But if you love spicy food, you'll absolutely adore this dish. Like Pad See Ew, Drunken Noodles can be customized with different proteins like chicken, pork, beef, or tofu.

When preparing Drunken Noodles, it's essential to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. This is because the dish cooks quickly, and you want to ensure that everything is added at the right time. Start by stir-frying the garlic and chili peppers in a hot wok until fragrant. Then, add your protein of choice and cook until browned. Next, add the vegetables and stir-fry until they are slightly softened. Finally, add the wide rice noodles, sauce, and holy basil, and stir-fry until everything is well combined and the noodles are coated in the sauce. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more chili peppers for extra heat or a touch of sugar to balance the flavors. Drunken Noodles is a dish that's all about bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, so don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Key Differences Between Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles

So, what are the main differences between Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles? Here's a quick rundown:

• Flavor Profile: Pad See Ew is savory-sweet and mild, while Drunken Noodles is spicy, savory, and slightly sweet.
• Key Ingredients: Pad See Ew features Chinese broccoli and a soy sauce-based sauce, while Drunken Noodles includes chili peppers, garlic, holy basil, and a variety of vegetables.
• Spice Level: Pad See Ew is generally mild, while Drunken Noodles is known for its spicy kick.
• Overall Vibe: Pad See Ew is comforting and familiar, while Drunken Noodles is bold and adventurous.

Pad See Ew Recipe

Ready to make your own delicious Pad See Ew at home? Here's a simple and authentic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz wide rice noodles (sen yai)
• 1 cup Chinese broccoli, chopped (or regular broccoli)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb protein of your choice (chicken, pork, beef, or tofu), sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Noodles: If using dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water until softened but still firm. Drain well.
2. Cook the Protein: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Add your protein and cook until browned.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add Chinese broccoli to the wok and stir-fry until slightly softened.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Push the protein and vegetables to one side of the wok. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through. Break the eggs into smaller pieces and mix with the protein and vegetables.
5. Add the Noodles and Sauce: Add the rice noodles to the wok. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir-fry until everything is well combined and the noodles are coated in the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Pad See Ew!

Drunken Noodles Recipe

Craving something spicy and flavorful? Here's a recipe for Drunken Noodles that will knock your socks off:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz wide rice noodles (sen yai)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, tomatoes, onions), sliced
• 1 cup holy basil leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-4 Thai chili peppers, minced (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 lb protein of your choice (chicken, pork, beef, or tofu), sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Noodles: If using dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water until softened but still firm. Drain well.
2. Cook the Protein: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and chili peppers and stir-fry until fragrant. Add your protein and cook until browned.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the wok and stir-fry until slightly softened.
4. Add the Noodles and Sauce: Add the rice noodles to the wok. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), and sugar. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir-fry until everything is well combined and the noodles are coated in the sauce.
5. Add the Holy Basil: Stir in the holy basil leaves just before serving.
6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy Drunken Noodles!

Tips for Perfect Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles

Here are some essential tips to help you achieve noodle perfection:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better your dish will taste. Look for vibrant vegetables and high-quality protein.
• Don't Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy and unappetizing. Cook them until they are just tender but still have a slight bite.
• Use a Hot Wok: A hot wok is essential for achieving that signature smoky flavor. Make sure your wok is screaming hot before you start cooking.
• Prepare Your Ingredients in Advance: Both Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles cook quickly, so it's important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
• Adjust the Seasoning to Your Taste: Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add more chili peppers for extra heat, or a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles is that they are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Add Different Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas.
• Use Different Proteins: Try using shrimp, squid, or crab for a seafood twist.
• Make it Vegetarian or Vegan: Omit the protein and use tofu or tempeh instead. Make sure to use a vegetarian or vegan oyster sauce.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or fewer chili peppers to adjust the spice level to your preference.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Now you know the key differences between Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles, and you have two fantastic recipes to try at home. Whether you prefer the comforting flavors of Pad See Ew or the bold spiciness of Drunken Noodles, these dishes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious world of Thai cuisine!