Pad See Ew: A Tasty Thai Delight
Welcome to the world of Thai cuisine, where flavors explode and every dish tells a story! Today, we’re diving into a delicious recipe for Pad See Ew, a popular stir-fried noodle dish. This meal is not just a feast for your taste buds; it also carries a rich cultural significance in Thailand.
Pad See Ew translates to “stir fried soy sauce” in Thai, which perfectly describes its unique taste. It’s believed that this dish has roots dating back to the Chinese immigrants who brought their cooking techniques to Thailand. Over time, Pad See Ew evolved into a beloved Thai comfort food enjoyed by many.
What makes Pad See Ew so appealing? Well, it’s hearty, simple to make, and full of flavors. The combination of chewy noodles, savory soy sauce, and fresh vegetables makes it a dish that everyone loves, from kids to adults!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
Rice noodles | 8 oz (about 225 grams) |
Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
Eggs | 2 large |
Broccoli or Chinese broccoli | 1 cup (chopped) |
Carrots | 1 cup (sliced) |
Chicken or tofu | 8 oz (cubed) |
Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
Dark soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
Chili flakes (optional) | To taste |
You can easily swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian version, or try different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 30 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the protein: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or tofu and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Scramble the eggs: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Crack the eggs in and scramble them until fully cooked.
- Add the vegetables: Toss in the broccoli and carrots, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Combine everything: Add the drained noodles, cooked protein, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar into the pan. Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: If you like it spicy, sprinkle with chili flakes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pad See Ew!
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
Calories | 450 | 22% |
Protein | 20g | 40% |
Carbohydrates | 60g | 20% |
Fats | 10g | 15% |
Sugar | 3g | 3% |
Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Don’t overcook: Make sure to stir-fry the vegetables until they are just tender to keep some crunch.
- Choose the right noodles: Use wide rice noodles for the best texture and flavor in Pad See Ew.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other veggies or proteins according to your taste!
- Avoid burning the soy sauce: Keep the heat at medium-high and stir continuously to prevent burning.
FAQs
How do you store leftovers of Pad See Ew?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on a stovetop before serving.
Can I use different vegetables in Pad See Ew?
Yes! You can use other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for each type!
What if I can’t find rice noodles?
If you can’t find rice noodles, you can substitute them with wide egg noodles or even spaghetti, but the flavor and texture will be different.
Is Pad See Ew spicy?
Traditional Pad See Ew is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes to make it hot if you prefer!
Can I make Pad See Ew vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken with tofu or any other plant-based protein of your choice.
How long does it take to make Pad See Ew?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-45 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal!
Can children eat Pad See Ew?
Yes! Pad See Ew is generally a kid-friendly dish. Just be sure to adjust the spiciness according to their taste.
What do you serve with Pad See Ew?
Pad See Ew is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of fresh cucumber salad or spring rolls for added crunch.
Why is there sugar in Pad See Ew?
The sugar balances out the savory flavors from the soy sauce, making the dish more delicious!
Now that you have all the ingredients and a step-by-step guide, why not try making Pad See Ew tonight? It’s not just a meal; it’s an adventure into Thai culture!