This dish is called "Pad Kee Mao", which translates to "Drunken Noodles" in Thai. The exact origins of this dish remain a mystery, but legend has it that a drunkard threw together whatever ingredients he had in his fridge, creating a dish so delicious that it became a classic. Today, Pad Kee Mao is often prepared with spaghetti instead of rice noodles, showing just how versatile it can be.
To make perfect Drunken Noodles, two things are essential:
1️⃣ Season the noodles before cooking – This ensures the flavors are evenly absorbed.
2️⃣ Don’t overcook fresh rice noodles – They are already cooked, so they only need to be reheated in a hot wok for a maximum of 2 minutes. Any longer, and they’ll start to stick and break apart. This dish is all about high heat and speed—so be ready to stir-fry fast!
Recipe (Serves 2)
200 to 300 g wide fresh rice noodles
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 teaspoon coconut sugar
2 tablespoons oil
10 g garlic, chopped
½ fresh red cayenne pepper, thinly sliced
1 to 6 thinly sliced fresh bird's eye chillies
100 g mixed vegetables such as Thai aubergines (cut into thin slices), pea aubergines, snake beans (cut into 1.5 cm lengths), baby corn (cut in half lengthways)
100 g chicken, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh green peppercorn
1 handful holy basil leaves
1️⃣ Place the rice noodles in a bowl with half the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir well to evenly coat the noodles.
2️⃣ Heat the oil over high heat, then stir-fry the garlic, cayenne pepper, chillies, vegetables, chicken and green peppercorn for about 2 minutes. Stir in the sugar and the remaining soy sauce and oyster sauce.
3️⃣ Over medium heat, add the noodles and holy basil (save a few leaves for garnish). Stir constantly for no more than 2 minutes—just until the noodles are hot. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4️⃣ Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.
📖 Want more delicious Thai noodle recipes?
This recipe is from my book dedicated to Pad Thai, noodles & rice! Get your copy and explore more authentic and creative ways to cook Thai-style noodles at home.