Drunken noodles (pad kee mao)

Drunken noodles (pad kee mao)

Drunken noodles, or Pad Kee Mao, is a vibrant Thai stir-fry featuring flat rice noodles tossed with spicy garlic, tender sirloin steak, and crisp broccoli, all infused with a savory sauce. This dish balances bold flavors and fresh herbs for a quick, satisfying meal.

Beef

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

5 min

Servings

2

Pad Kee Mao, commonly known as drunken noodles, is a famous Thai street food beloved for its spicy, aromatic flavor profile and hearty ingredients. Traditionally enjoyed as a late-night dish, its bold flavors are believed to be perfect for both sobering up and satisfying late-evening hunger. The combination of heat from birds-eye chillies, fragrant garlic, and the fresh punch of basil leaves creates a perfect harmony with tender sirloin steak and crisp vegetables. This version incorporates flat rice noodles that soak up the rich sauce made from soy, oyster, and fish sauces balanced by a touch of sugar for sweetness. Adding broccoli not only introduces a nice crunch but also adds a nutritious green element, making the dish well-rounded and visually appealing. Cooking the ingredients in a hot wok ensures that the steak is seared beautifully while maintaining its juiciness, and the noodles get perfectly coated with sauce. Pad Kee Mao pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber salad or a side of steamed jasmine rice to mellow the spice. The freshness of the basil leaves stirred at the very end provides an aromatic lift and vibrant color. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a quick yet authentic Thai meal bursting with flavor and texture.

Ingredients

  • 200 g Flat Rice Noodles
  • 2 tblsp Vegetable Oil
  • 3 cloves chopped Garlic
  • 3 chopped Birds-eye Chillies
  • 225 g Sirloin steak
  • 100 g Broccoli
  • Handful Basil Leaves
  • 4 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Oyster Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce
  • 1 tblsp Sugar

Instructions

Begin by preparing the flat rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar in a small bowl or jug, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved to create a harmonious, flavorful sauce. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over high heat until shimmering. Add the chopped garlic and birds-eye chillies, stir-frying briskly for around 20 seconds until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden — be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. Next, add the sirloin steak, sliced thinly, and stir-fry for about one minute until the meat is nicely seared on the outside and begins to brown. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for another minute to keep them crisp and bright green. Then, add the cooked noodles and pour over the prepared sauce. Stir-fry everything together for a further 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated and the dish is piping hot. Finally, stir through the handful of fresh basil leaves, allowing their sweet aroma to infuse the dish as you turn off the heat. Serve the drunken noodles immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures at their best. For an extra touch, garnish with extra basil or a squeeze of lime if desired. Remember, avoid letting the noodles sit too long after cooking, as they can become soggy.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2