Pad See Ew Recipe (with Video)

Pad See Ew Recipe: Pad See Ew is a beloved Thai stir-fried noodle dish featuring wide rice noodles, a savory soy-based sauce, crisp vegetables, and your choice of protein. Known for its rich flavors and smoky aroma, Pad See Ew is a staple in Thai street food culture. The name translates to “fried soy sauce,” perfectly describing its main flavor profile.

Whether you’re a fan of Thai food or just looking to try something new, this dish is an excellent choice. It’s quick, easy, and satisfies cravings for something hearty and flavorful.

Origin and Popularity of Pad See Ew

Pad See Ew has roots in Chinese cuisine but has been embraced and adapted in Thailand for generations. Its popularity stems from its balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors. You’ll often find it in Thai restaurants worldwide, but making it at home offers the freedom to customize the ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients Needed for Pad See Ew

Main Ingredients

• Wide Rice Noodles (Sen Yai): These flat, chewy noodles are the star of the dish. You can find them fresh or dried in most Asian grocery stores.
• Protein: Chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Vegetables: Chinese broccoli (gai lan) is traditional, but you can substitute with regular broccoli or bok choy.
• Eggs: Adds richness and binds the flavors together.

Essential Sauces and Seasonings

• Dark Soy Sauce: Provides the signature dark color and rich flavor.
• Light Soy Sauce: Balances the saltiness and umami.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and sweetness.
• Fish Sauce: Optional for added umami.
• Sugar: Balances out the saltiness and enhances flavor.
• White Pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
• Vinegar or Lime Juice: For a hint of tanginess.

Preparation Steps Before Cooking

Preparing the Noodles

1. For Fresh Noodles: Separate them gently with your hands, as they can stick together.
2. For Dried Noodles: Soak them in warm water for 20–30 minutes until softened, then drain and set aside. Avoid over-soaking to prevent mushy noodles.

Prepping Vegetables and Protein

1. Vegetables: Wash and chop Chinese broccoli into bite-sized pieces, separating stems from leaves.
2. Protein: Slice chicken, beef, or pork thinly against the grain. For shrimp, devein and remove shells if necessary. Tofu should be cut into small cubes for even cooking.
3. Eggs: Beat them lightly in a bowl and keep ready.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Stir-Frying the Protein

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the protein of your choice and stir-fry until cooked through (about 2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

1. Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok.
2. Toss in the garlic and stir until fragrant.
3. Add the stems of Chinese broccoli first, as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes before adding the leaves.

Mixing the Noodles and Sauce

1. Push the vegetables to one side of the wok and crack the eggs into the empty space. Scramble lightly until just set.
2. Add the softened noodles and cooked protein back into the wok.
3. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture (dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar). Toss everything together until well coated.
4. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes to allow the noodles to absorb the sauce and develop a smoky flavor.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pad See Ew

Choosing the Right Noodles

Selecting the right type of noodles is crucial for achieving authentic Pad See Ew. Traditional Sen Yai noodles (wide, flat rice noodles) are ideal because they soak up the sauce well and provide the chewy texture that makes this dish so satisfying.

• Fresh Noodles: If you can find fresh noodles, use them for the best texture. Separate them carefully, as they tend to stick together.
• Dried Noodles: If fresh noodles aren’t available, dried rice noodles work as a substitute. Be sure to soak them properly to prevent overcooking.
• Alternative Options: For a healthier twist, you can use zucchini noodles or brown rice noodles.

Achieving the Signature Smoky Flavor

The hallmark of a great Pad See Ew is its slightly smoky flavor, which comes from cooking the noodles at high heat. Here’s how to achieve it:

1. Use a Wok: A wok retains and distributes heat evenly, creating the desired smokiness.
2. High Heat is Key: Cook quickly over high heat to avoid steaming the noodles.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry ingredients in batches if necessary. Overcrowding cools the pan, leading to soggy noodles.
4. Let the Noodles Char Slightly: After adding the sauce, let the noodles sit for a few seconds before stirring to allow caramelization.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Garnishes and Side Dishes

Pad See Ew is often served as a standalone dish, but adding garnishes and side dishes can enhance the experience.

Garnishes:

• Lime wedges for a citrusy touch
• Crushed peanuts for extra crunch
• Chili flakes for heat
• Fresh cilantro for added aroma

Side Dishes:

• Thai spring rolls or satay skewers as appetizers
• Tom Yum soup for a spicy, tangy starter
• Thai iced tea to balance the flavors with sweetness

Serving Style

Serve Pad See Ew hot, straight from the wok, to preserve its texture and flavor. For gatherings, you can double or triple the recipe and present it in a large platter for a family-style meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, Pad See Ew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the noodles tend to break apart and lose their texture when thawed.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

To maintain its original taste and texture, follow these reheating tips:

Stovetop Method (Best Option):

• Heat a pan or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add a splash of oil and stir-fry the noodles until heated through.
• If the noodles seem dry, add a teaspoon of water or soy sauce to refresh them.

Microwave Method (Quick Option):

• Place the noodles in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warmed.

FAQs about Pad See Ew Recipe

1. What is Pad See Ew?

Pad See Ew is a popular Thai street food dish made with stir-fried rice noodles. It typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, eggs, and a protein such as chicken, beef, or tofu, combined with Chinese broccoli or regular broccoli.

2. What type of noodles are best for Pad See Ew?

For authentic Pad See Ew, wide rice noodles are the best choice. These noodles absorb flavors well and have the ideal texture for stir-frying. If wide rice noodles aren’t available, you can substitute with another flat noodle that can withstand high heat.

3. Can I make Pad See Ew vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make Pad See Ew vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. Use a vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce as a substitute for the traditional oyster sauce to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

4. What is the key to a perfect Pad See Ew?

The key to perfect Pad See Ew is the wok heat. You need to cook it on high heat to achieve the slightly charred and smoky flavor that this dish is known for. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the wok, so each ingredient has enough room to fry properly.

5. How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

To prevent the noodles from sticking, ensure they are fully hydrated and loosened before adding to the wok. Tossing the noodles gently and continuously during cooking also helps. A little bit of oil can also prevent sticking without making the dish too greasy.

Conclusion

Pad See Ew is a delightful and versatile Thai dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its savory sauce, tender noodles, and crisp vegetables, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite worldwide.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, following this step-by-step guide ensures a foolproof Pad See Ew every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with ingredients and add your own twist to make it even more personalized.