Thai Drunken Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love bold, spicy, and flavorful Thai food, then Thai Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) is a must-try! This dish features chewy rice noodles stir-fried with garlic, Thai chilies, fresh basil, and a savory-sweet sauce that coats every bite perfectly.

Despite the name, there’s no alcohol in the dish—it’s called “Drunken Noodles” because it’s often enjoyed as a late-night meal after a night out, thanks to its spicy, satisfying flavors.

Best of all, it’s easy to make at home in just 30 minutes and tastes just like your favorite Thai restaurant!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

50ml (3 tbsp) soy sauce
30ml (2 tbsp) oyster sauce
15ml (1 tbsp) fish sauce
10g (2 tsp) brown sugar
15ml (1 tbsp) dark soy sauce (for color, optional)

For the Noodles & Stir-Fry:

250g (9 oz) wide rice noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
200g (7 oz) chicken, shrimp, or tofu, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
1 handful Thai basil leaves
1 tsp white pepper (optional for extra depth of flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Soak or cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until soft but firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and dark soy sauce. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Everything Together

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over high heat.
Add garlic and chilies, stirring quickly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and stir-fry until cooked through.
Toss in bell peppers and onions, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Add the noodles, pour in the sauce, and toss everything together until coated.
Finally, add Thai basil leaves and stir until wilted.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with more basil, lime wedges, or crushed peanuts (optional).
Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 2-3 Servings)

Calories: 450 kcal
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on protein choice and portion sizes.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Thai Drunken Noodles

???? Use fresh Thai basil – This gives the dish its signature aromatic flavor! If unavailable, substitute with Italian basil + a pinch of mint.

???? Adjust the spice level – Use fewer chilies for mild heat or add extra for fiery spice.

???? Don’t overcook the noodles – They should be soft but firm, as they’ll cook further in the sauce.

???? Use a hot wok or pan – A high heat ensures quick cooking and authentic stir-fry texture.

???? Swap proteins – Try it with beef, shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms for variety.

Why This Pad Kee Mao Recipe is a Must-Try

✔ Authentic Thai flavors
✔ Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes!
✔ Customizable with your favorite protein
✔ Perfect balance of sweet, savory & spicy