Healthy Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
Meta Description: Savor a lighter version of the classic Thai Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) with this easy and healthy recipe. Packed with flavorful ingredients, it's perfect for any night of the week.
Introduction
Drunken Noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, is a beloved Thai stir-fry known for its spicy and savory flavors. This healthier rendition maintains the dish's essence while making it more accessible and nutritious. By simplifying the ingredients and lightening up the recipe, you can enjoy this delicious meal without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- Rice Noodles: 8 ounces of dried wide rice noodles are ideal. If unavailable, standard Pad Thai noodles work well.
- Protein: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces. Alternatively, tofu or shrimp can be used.
- Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 serrano pepper, seeds removed and minced (optional for spice)
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Other:
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (Thai basil preferred)
Instructions
Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions for stir-fry dishes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and fish sauce until well combined.
Cook the Protein:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink in the center, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and serrano pepper (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Add the cooked rice noodles to the skillet and gently toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Add Basil and Serve:
- Tear fresh basil leaves and stir them into the noodle mixture just before serving. This adds a fragrant and authentic touch to the dish.
Conclusion
This Healthy Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) recipe offers a delightful balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. It's a versatile dish that allows for substitutions based on your preferences and ingredient availability. Enjoy a taste of Thai cuisine that's both satisfying and mindful of your health goals.