Pad See Ew Vs Drunken Noodles: the Delicious Thai Noodle Showdown (2023)

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Curious about the difference between Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles? The two Thai noodle dishes may look similar, but they have distinct flavor profiles that make them stand out from each other.

We’ll learn what ingredients are used in each dish, how to cook them both at home, and if there are any similarities between the two.

So grab your chopsticks (or fork!) and let’s get started on this noodley showdown of Pad See Ew vs.

Pad See Ew Vs. Drunken Noodles: What’s the Difference?

You’re craving something savory yet slightly sweet with wide noodles tonight. While Pad See Ew offers a saltier soy sauce taste, Drunken Noodles bring an extra kick of garlic and chilies.

Flavor Profile of Pad See Ew

You’ll feel the comfort of home in every savory-sweet bite of Pad See Ew, like a warm embrace from Grandma’s kitchen on a chilly night. Every chewy, wide noodle and tender broccoli stem in this iconic Thai noodle dish has been steeped in a soul-soothing sauce redolent of oyster essence and black soy.

Savory, molasses undertones counterpoint the stir-fried meat and crisp veggies. Though less spicy than its sibling Drunken Noodles, Pad See Ew’s flavor complexity shines through thanks to Thai basil’s distinctive licorice sweetness rounding out the symphony of salty and sweet.

Flavor Profile of Drunken Noodles

The garlicky, sizzling Drunken Noodles tantalize your taste buds with an addictive blend of spicy and savory. The Thai basil’s aniseed flavor combines deliciously with the wide noodles, chilies, and protein.

This street food favorite awakens your palate with bursts of garlic, various Thai basil varieties, and heat. The noodles absorb the complex flavors of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and signature Thai spice.

Ingredients for Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles

You’ve got delicious noodles to choose from! The ingredients set these Thai classics apart. Drunken noodles pack heat with garlic, Thai chilies, and savory oyster sauce bathing wide rice noodles. Vary the protein with chicken, pork, or shrimp and throw in crisp veggies like peppers and snap peas.

Pad see ew takes a sweeter route with Chinese broccoli and molasses-style sauce clinging to broad noodles. Sear slices of beef, pork, or chicken and offset with a sprinkle of white pepper. Both dishes satisfy cravings, so decide if you want spicy or sweet and customize with proteins and veggies to make it your own.

Whichever you pick, vibrant Thai flavors await your palate. Just grab your chopsticks and dig in!

How to Cook Pad See Ew

Stir your noodles to perfection with this savory Pad See Ew recipe. To make authentic Pad See Ew at home, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:

1. Fresh wide rice noodles – soak in hot water until soft.
2. Chinese broccoli – blanch briefly to retain crunch.
3. Soy and oyster sauce – add deep umami flavor.
4. Choice protein – chicken, pork, or tofu.

In a hot wok, stir-fry the noodles over high heat with a little oil. Add the vegetables and protein and toss everything together. Pour in the sauces and toss constantly until the noodles are coated. Turn off the heat and sprinkle with scallions for an easy yet delicious noodle dinner in minutes.

Though similar, Pad See Ew’s sweeter profile sets it apart from spicy Drunken Noodles.

How to Cook Drunken Noodles

Sizzle up some Thai Drunken Noodles to tantalize your taste buds! Begin by soaking the wide rice noodles according to package directions.

While the noodles soften, prepare the protein and chopped vegetables. Choose from chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option as the protein. Classic choices for vegetables include bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and basil.

Now, heat your wok or large skillet over high heat and add oil. Stir-fry the protein and vegetables until they are just cooked through. Clear a space in the center of the wok to sear the garlic, chiles, and sauce ingredients.

Add the softened noodles and toss vigorously to integrate flavors. Adjust the spiciness to taste by altering the amount and type of chiles. For variations, you can swap ingredients like baby corn, snow peas, or mushrooms.

In just minutes, you can stir up this flavorful noodle dish!

Can Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles Be Made Healthier?

Can’t homemade versions of both dishes use lighter ingredients for healthier enjoyment? You’re right, homemade Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles provide opportunities to adjust recipes for healthier ingredients while still savoring delicious noodles.

Substituting lower sodium soy sauce, using less oil, adding more vegetables, and choosing lean proteins allows enjoyment of these noodle dishes in a more nutritious way. Experimenting with adjustments caters the recipes to your taste and health goals.

Calorie Comparison:

Pad See Ew:

• Per Cup (250g): 255
• Per 100g: 102

Drunken Noodles:

• Per Cup (250g): 323
• Per 100g: 129

Homemade versions allow ingredient substitutions for healthier and lighter options while still enjoying the signature tastes of Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles. Focus on adjustments that align with your nutritional goals without sacrificing flavor.

Similarities Between Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles

You’d drool over the big, fat noodles in both dishes. Despite different flavor profiles, Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles share key similarities that make them iconic Thai noodle dishes.

Chinese broccoli in Pad See Ew and mixed veggies in Drunken Noodles add color and crunch. Though Drunken Noodles pack more heat, the savory soy sauce in Pad See Ew provides comfort.

Their unique flavors and foolproof stir-fry cooking have made them staples on Thai restaurant menus. Whether you crave the sweetness of Pad See Ew or the fire of Drunken Noodles, these noodle classics capture the vibrant spirit of Thai cuisine.

Which Noodle Dish is More Popular?

While both Pad See Ew and Drunken Noodles are delicious noodle dishes with Chinese origins, there are key differences when it comes to popularity.

Drunken Noodles explode with complex flavors – the interplay of savory oyster sauce, sweet soy, pungent garlic, and spicy chiles creates an unforgettable experience. Its fiery personality excites the palate in a way Pad See Ew’s more restrained salty-sweet profile doesn’t quite match.

Drunken Noodles seduce foodies seeking authentic Thai cuisine and thrill-seekers craving culinary adventure.

Yet the quietly comforting Pad See Ew remains beloved for its adaptability and approachable flavor.

Still, for those hungry for excitement, Drunken Noodles beckons – a chance to ignite the taste buds and discover new depths of Thai cuisine.

Is Thai Basil the Same as Regular Basil?

Don’t swap Thai basil for regular basil when making drunken noodles, as the flavors are quite different. When dining on authentic Thai cuisine, savor the unique anise-like flavor of Thai basil. Its scent entices the senses, with hints of licorice and cloves. Regular basil lacks this distinctive essence.

Beyond taste, Thai basil packs health benefits from antioxidants like carotenoids. Harness its fresh, licorice notes in drunken noodles, curries, and stir-fries. Or add it to pad see ew for an aromatic flair.

With its energizing yet calming nature, Thai basil awakens your spirit. Embrace its sweet spiciness by using it to finish Thai dishes. You’ll never view regular basil the same after experiencing the magic of Thai basil.

Sinking your teeth into the purple-stemmed leaves will transport you to Thailand itself.

Can I Customize the Spiciness of Drunken Noodles?

Wow, the heat level in these noodles can really blaze your taste buds when you boost the chili peppers! One of the best things about Drunken Noodles is that you can tailor the spice to your liking.

At a Thai restaurant, you can request mild, medium, or spicy heat. For homemade noodles, you can tone down the fire by adding fewer Thai chilis and garlic. On the other hand, if you want to amp up the spice, you can toss in extra crushed red pepper flakes.

Adjusting the amount of chili peppers gives you customizable heat to match your spicy noodle cravings.

Whether you prefer a slow burn or an inferno in every bite, you have the power to spice these noodles up or down. Just remember, you can always add more chili later if you need to turn up the heat. So don’t be afraid to start with a lower spice level and work your way up to your perfect customized heat.

With Drunken Noodles, you’re in control of lighting your mouth on fire.