How to Cook Thai Street Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce (Pad See Ew) – Authentic Thai Street Food Recipe
Finding an easy and authentic method to make Thai street noodles with sweet soy sauce at home can be challenging. Many people struggle with balancing the flavors of sweet soy sauce, fresh vegetables, and tender noodles. However, this guide will show you step-by-step how to prepare Pad See Ew, Thailand’s beloved street food dish, ensuring perfect texture and flavor every time. By following these techniques, you can master this classic Thai stir-fried noodle recipe that delights both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Ingredients for Authentic Pad See Ew with Sweet Soy Sauce
To achieve the perfect Thai street-style Pad See Ew, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) wide rice noodles (fresh or dried)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g chicken, pork, beef, or tofu, thinly sliced
- 2 cups Chinese broccoli (gai lan) or broccoli florets
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of white pepper
- Optional chili flakes for serving
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Cook Thai Street Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce
1. Preparing the Noodles
If using dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water for 30–45 minutes until soft. Fresh noodles can be used directly but separate them gently to prevent clumping. Proper preparation ensures noodles cook evenly and absorb the sweet soy sauce perfectly.
2. Cooking the Protein and Vegetables
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add your choice of protein (chicken, pork, beef, or tofu) and cook until just done, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Chinese broccoli or broccoli florets and stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Stir-Frying Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce
- Push vegetables and protein to one side of the wok, then crack in two eggs and scramble briefly.
- Add the prepared rice noodles and pour in 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce, 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce.
- Toss noodles thoroughly with protein, vegetables, and eggs to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon sugar and a pinch of white pepper, stir well, and cook for 2–3 minutes until noodles are slightly caramelized.
4. Serving Suggestions and Tips
- Serve Pad See Ew hot on a plate with optional chili flakes.
- For extra flavor, garnish with a squeeze of lime or fried garlic.
- Use fresh, high-quality rice noodles for the authentic street taste.
- Adjust sweet soy sauce to your preference for sweetness and color.
Common Mistakes When Making Pad See Ew and How to Avoid Them
Many home cooks find it difficult to replicate the taste of Thai street noodles due to overcooked or clumped noodles, bland seasoning, or undercooked vegetables. Ensuring proper noodle preparation, correct heat, and timely addition of sauces can prevent these issues. By following the detailed steps above, anyone can create restaurant-quality Pad See Ew at home.
Exploring Variations of Thai Street Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce
Vegetarian Pad See Ew
Replace meat with firm tofu and add a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. Use mushroom soy sauce for added umami flavor.
Seafood Pad See Ew
Substitute protein with shrimp or squid for a seafood twist. Cook seafood quickly to maintain tenderness, and stir-fry with broccoli and noodles as usual.
Spicy Pad See Ew
Include Thai bird’s eye chili or chili flakes during stir-frying for those who enjoy heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Why Learn to Cook Thai Street Noodles at Home
Preparing Pad See Ew at home allows you to enjoy authentic Thai flavors, control ingredients for healthier meals, and impress family or friends with restaurant-quality dishes. With this complete guide, cooking Thai street food becomes accessible and enjoyable for anyone. Mastering Pad See Ew also opens doors to exploring more Thai street food recipes, from Pad Thai to Drunken Noodles, ensuring you have a versatile repertoire of easy-to-cook Thai dishes.