Pad Phak Kana: A Delicious Thai Stir-Fry
Are you ready to discover a delightful dish that’s popular in Thai cuisine? Pad Phak Kana is a tasty stir-fry that features Chinese broccoli, a crunchy and nutritious vegetable. This dish is not only delicious but also holds cultural significance in Thailand, where fresh vegetables and bold flavors are essential to daily meals. People love Pad Phak Kana because it’s quick to prepare, healthy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a side dish for any meal!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Chinese broccoli (Kana) | 300g |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili flakes (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 2 tablespoons |
Alternative Suggestions: If you can’t find Chinese broccoli, you can substitute it with regular broccoli or kale. For a vegetarian option, you can use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Rinse the Chinese broccoli thoroughly and cut it into 2-inch pieces.
- Heat the Oil: On medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok.
- Add Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
- Stir-Fry the Broccoli: Add the Chinese broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Add Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and optional chili flakes. Stir everything well to combine.
- Add Water: Add 2 tablespoons of water to help steam the broccoli and cover the skillet for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve: Once the broccoli is tender and vibrant green, remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your Pad Phak Kana!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
Tips and Tricks
- Try Adding Protein: You can add chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the dish heartier and more filling.
- Adjust the Spiciness: If you love spice, increase the amount of chili flakes according to your taste!
- Cook on High Heat: Stir-frying on high heat helps to keep the vegetables crunchy and colorful.
- Avoid Overcooking: Be sure not to overcook the broccoli, or it will lose its beautiful color and nutrients.
FAQs
What is Pad Phak Kana?
Pad Phak Kana is a popular Thai stir-fried dish featuring Chinese broccoli cooked with garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce.
Is Pad Phak Kana spicy?
The dish is usually not very spicy, but you can add chili flakes to adjust the heat level to your liking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by using mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce.
What can I serve with Pad Phak Kana?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or can be served as a side dish to other Thai meals.
How long does it take to cook Pad Phak Kana?
It takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook Pad Phak Kana, making it perfect for a quick meal.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute Chinese broccoli with regular broccoli, kale, or even bok choy.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Pad Phak Kana can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Pad Phak Kana?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the vegetables may become mushy after thawing.
What tools do I need to make this dish?
You’ll need a large skillet or wok, a cutting board, and a knife for prep, plus a spatula for stir-frying.
Why is it important to stir-fry quickly?
Quick stir-frying on high heat helps to lock in flavors and keeps the vegetables fresh and crunchy.
Can I add nuts to Pad Phak Kana?
Sure! Adding toasted peanuts or cashews can provide a nice crunch and additional flavor.
Now you’re ready to make your own delicious Pad Phak Kana! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the healthy goodness of this amazing Thai dish.
