Pad See Ew

Pad See Ew is a beloved Thai noodle dish that’s simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. It features wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender chicken, Chinese broccoli, and a savory sauce that brings a wonderful balance of salty, sweet, and umami to the table. The lightly scrambled eggs add a touch of richness, making each bite comforting and satisfying.

This dish is perfect for those who crave a quick, no-fuss meal without compromising on taste. Its bold flavors make it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, and it’s easily customizable by adding your favorite proteins or extra veggies. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or simply love a good stir-fried noodle dish, Pad See Ew is a must-try recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Thailand.

Full Recipe:

8 oz (250g) wide rice noodles (fresh or dried)
8 oz (250g) chicken breast or thigh, thinly sliced
2 cups Chinese broccoli (gai lan), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce (use both light and dark, or just one if preferred)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
Optional: pinch of white pepper

Directions:

Prepare the noodles: If using dried noodles, soak them in warm water until softened, then drain. If using fresh, gently separate them.
Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until it is almost cooked through (about 3 minutes).
Add the eggs: Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Pour the eggs on the other side and scramble lightly until just set.
Stir-fry noodles and veggies: Add the noodles and Chinese broccoli into the wok. Pour the sauce over everything and toss well to combine, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are soft and the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, season with a pinch of white pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: ~450 kcal per serving | Servings: 2 servings

About Pad See Ew

Pad See Ew, which literally translates to “fried (with) soy sauce,” is one of Thailand’s most popular street food dishes. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish that is loved for its simple yet deeply savory flavors. Unlike its spicier cousin Pad Thai, Pad See Ew leans more on a balanced umami flavor profile, emphasizing soy sauce as the key seasoning. It’s traditionally cooked quickly over high heat in a wok, which gives it a characteristic “wok hei” (or smoky) flavor that many fans love.

Ingredients Breakdown

Rice Noodles: Wide, flat rice noodles are key to the texture and experience of Pad See Ew. Fresh noodles are ideal for their chewiness, but dried rice noodles work well too once they are soaked to soften. These noodles soak up the sauce beautifully and are essential to the authenticity of the dish.
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan): A leafy green vegetable, Chinese broccoli is slightly bitter and adds a nice contrast to the savory noodles. It’s crunchy stems and tender leaves are perfect for stir-frying.
Protein (Chicken, Beef, Pork, Tofu): Chicken is a common choice, but you can substitute it with other proteins like beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian version. The thin slices of meat cook quickly, ensuring they stay tender.
Eggs: Lightly scrambled eggs in the dish add richness and a soft texture that complements the noodles and veggies. It’s an optional addition, but highly recommended for an authentic Pad See Ew experience.
The Sauce: The sauce for Pad See Ew is simple yet flavorful. A mix of light soy sauce for saltiness, dark soy sauce for a deeper color and a touch of sweetness, oyster sauce for umami, and fish sauce for an extra layer of savory flavor create a balance that coats the noodles perfectly.

Cooking Tips

High Heat and a Hot Wok: To achieve the signature “wok hei” flavor, a very hot wok or large skillet is essential. It ensures that the ingredients cook quickly, develop a slight char, and retain their crunchiness.
Avoid Overcrowding: Stir-fry the ingredients in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the wok can cause the noodles to steam instead of fry, resulting in a mushy texture.
Separate the Ingredients: When adding the eggs to the pan, create space in the wok by pushing other ingredients to the side. Scrambling the eggs separately before combining them ensures they don’t get overcooked or lost among the other ingredients.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian/Vegan Version: For a vegetarian take on Pad See Ew, swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetarian oyster sauce (made from mushrooms). To make it vegan, also skip the eggs or use a vegan egg substitute.
Mix Up the Vegetables: While Chinese broccoli is the traditional veggie in this dish, you can use broccolini, regular broccoli, bok choy, or any other leafy greens you have on hand.
Customize Your Protein: If chicken isn’t your choice of protein, beef, pork, or shrimp are excellent alternatives. Slicing the protein thinly ensures even cooking and keeps it tender.
Spicy Twist: While Pad See Ew is not typically spicy, you can add chili oil, fresh sliced chilies, or dried chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pad See Ew is usually served on its own as a complete meal since it contains carbs (noodles), protein, and vegetables. However, it pairs beautifully with other Thai dishes like:

Thai Papaya Salad (Som Tum): A refreshing and tangy side salad to cut through the savory flavors.
Tom Yum Soup: A spicy and sour soup that adds a warming contrast to the stir-fried noodles.
Thai Iced Tea or Thai Lime Soda: A cold and sweet beverage is a great complement to the rich flavors of Pad See Ew.

Cultural and Historical Context

Pad See Ew has Chinese origins and is a popular adaptation of Chinese stir-fried noodle dishes. It has become an integral part of Thai street food culture and is commonly found across Thailand. The dish is quick, filling, and delicious, making it a go-to option for many Thai locals for lunch or dinner. It is also popular in other Southeast Asian countries with slight regional variations in flavor and ingredients.

Origins and Cultural Significance

Pad See Ew’s roots can be traced back to Chinese immigrants who brought their stir-fry cooking techniques to Thailand. The influence is evident in the use of soy sauce and stir-fried noodles. Over time, Thai cooks adapted this dish, infusing it with their own flavors and preferences. Today, Pad See Ew is a staple in Thai street food markets, where vendors cook it fresh in large woks over roaring flames. It’s particularly popular because of its balanced flavors, contrasting textures, and quick preparation – making it a beloved comfort food for many Thai people.

Unlike some other Thai noodle dishes, Pad See Ew focuses on deep, savory flavors rather than spicy or sour notes. This makes it particularly approachable for those who are new to Thai cuisine or prefer milder dishes.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Pad See Ew is a balanced dish that provides a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables, making it a wholesome meal. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional components and some tips on making it even healthier:

Calories: A standard serving of Pad See Ew (around 1 cup) contains about 450-500 kcal. This can vary based on the type and amount of protein, oil, and sauces used.
Protein: Using lean chicken or tofu as your protein source makes this dish filling and provides the necessary amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
Vegetables: The addition of Chinese broccoli or other greens not only adds texture but also provides a dose of fiber, vitamins A and C, and essential minerals like iron and calcium.
Lowering Sodium & Sugar: The soy sauce and oyster sauce can contribute to high sodium levels. For a healthier version, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and reducing the amount of added sugar. Alternatively, tamari or coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free or lower-sodium option.

Essential Techniques for the Perfect Pad See Ew

Cooking the perfect Pad See Ew requires just a few key techniques:

Controlling the Heat: The hallmark of any good stir-fried dish is high heat. Use a wok or large pan to create that slightly charred, smoky flavor, which is key to a restaurant-quality Pad See Ew. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the noodles can turn out sticky or soggy.
Timing of Ingredients: Since this dish cooks quickly, it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. The cooking sequence – protein first, then eggs, followed by noodles and sauce – ensures that each component is cooked perfectly and retains its unique texture.
Balancing the Flavors: Pad See Ew is all about achieving that harmonious balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Taste as you go; if the dish needs more salt, add a touch of soy sauce. If it needs more sweetness, add a bit more sugar or dark soy sauce for both flavor and color.

Alternative Serving Ideas

Pad See Ew is traditionally enjoyed on its own, but it can also be served alongside other Thai-inspired dishes for a full-course meal. Here are a few ideas for creating a delicious Thai-themed meal:

Appetizers: Start with something light and refreshing like Thai Fresh Spring Rolls filled with shrimp, lettuce, and herbs, served with a sweet chili dipping sauce.
Side Dishes: A side of Thai Cucumber Salad adds a fresh and tangy contrast to the deep flavors of Pad See Ew, balancing the meal perfectly.
Beverages: Pair the dish with a traditional Thai Iced Tea for a cooling, sweet complement or a Tamarind Juice for a tangy refreshment.

Recipe Variations for Every Taste

Seafood Pad See Ew: Swap the chicken for prawns, squid, or a mix of seafood for a coastal twist. The sweetness of seafood pairs well with the deep soy flavor of the dish.
Beef Pad See Ew: Use thinly sliced beef marinated briefly in soy sauce, garlic, and pepper. The beef’s robust flavor adds depth to the dish.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Adaptations: Omit fish sauce and replace oyster sauce with a mushroom-based vegetarian version. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Extra Veggies or Spicy Pad See Ew: Add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or baby corn for a more nutrient-rich dish. For those who love spice, add Thai chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an added kick.

Cooking Equipment and Tools

To make Pad See Ew at home, it’s helpful to have the right tools:

Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying because its shape allows for even heating and tossing of ingredients. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet will work well, as long as you use high heat.
Spatula or Tongs: A spatula helps toss and turn the noodles while stir-frying. Tongs can also be useful for lifting and stirring the noodles gently to prevent breakage.
Prep Bowls and Chopping Board: Since stir-frying happens quickly, having all your ingredients prepped in separate bowls is key. It makes the cooking process smooth and efficient.

The Role of Fresh vs. Dried Noodles

The type of noodles you use can influence the final taste and texture of your Pad See Ew:

Fresh Rice Noodles: These are ideal for Pad See Ew because of their soft, chewy texture. They are available in most Asian grocery stores and usually come in refrigerated packets. Fresh noodles require minimal soaking and cook quickly.
Dried Rice Noodles: If fresh noodles aren’t available, dried rice noodles can be used. They need to be soaked in warm water until softened before cooking. The taste is similar, but the texture may be slightly firmer than fresh noodles.

Fun Fact: Soy Sauce in Thai Cuisine

Pad See Ew uses both light and dark soy sauce, which is a common practice in Thai cuisine to achieve layers of flavor and color:

Light Soy Sauce: Provides the primary seasoning and a light color.
Dark Soy Sauce: Adds sweetness and gives the noodles their rich, brown color. It has a thicker consistency and is less salty than light soy sauce.

Serving Tips and Garnishes

To enhance the presentation and flavor of Pad See Ew, consider these garnishes and serving tips:

Lime Wedges: Serve the noodles with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a slight tang.
Chili Vinegar: Thai-style chili vinegar, made with sliced chilies soaked in vinegar, can be drizzled over the noodles for a tangy and spicy kick.
Crushed Peanuts or Cashews: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some crushed nuts over the dish just before serving.

Conclusion

Pad See Ew is a delicious and versatile Thai stir-fried noodle dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to the table. Its simplicity makes it a perfect weeknight meal, while its balanced taste and customizable ingredients allow it to suit various dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick solo dinner or paired with other Thai dishes for a full feast, Pad See Ew is sure to become a favorite in any kitchen. Try it out, and let the flavors of Thailand bring joy to your meal!