Drunken Noodles

Name: Drunken Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 8 oz flat rice noodles; 1 cup chicken (or tofu), sliced; 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced; ½ cup fresh basil leaves; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 shallots, sliced; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)

Published: October 12, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Drunken Noodles:

Rice Noodles: Use flat rice noodles for the best texture; they soak up flavors beautifully.
Chicken or Tofu: Choose your protein; both options absorb the sauce well and add heartiness.
Bell Peppers: A mix of colors adds visual appeal while providing crunch and sweetness.
Fresh Basil: Thai basil is ideal, but regular basil works too; it brings freshness to every bite.
Garlic and Shallots: Must-haves for aromatic depth—don’t skimp on these flavor powerhouses!

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to keep saltiness in check.
Oyster Sauce: Adds richness and umami; it’s a secret weapon in many Asian dishes.
Sriracha or Chili Paste: Adjust according to your spice tolerance—go ahead, get saucy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Drunken Noodles:

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles

Start by soaking the rice noodles in hot water for about 20 minutes until they’re soft but still have a bit of bite. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Your Protein

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add some oil. Once hot, toss in your chicken or tofu until golden brown and cooked through—about six to eight minutes should do it!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and sliced shallots to the skillet with your protein. Stir-fry for about two minutes until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Toss in your colorful bell peppers and any other veggies you like (carrots or snap peas work)! Stir-fry everything together for another three minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 5: Mix Up the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Sriracha. Pour this tantalizing concoction over your sautéed goodness in the skillet.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add those soaked rice noodles into the mix! Gently toss everything together so every noodle gets coated in that delicious sauce. Cook for an additional two minutes until everything is heated through.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra Sriracha if you’re feeling daring—enjoy those glorious Drunken Noodles!

And there you have it! A no-fuss recipe packed with flavor that can be whipped up on any weeknight or served at gatherings with friends. So grab your chopsticks (or fork if you’re feeling rebellious), dig into those Drunken Noodles and enjoy each slurp!

[carre_box title=”You Must Know About Drunken Noodles”] This showstopping Drunken Noodles delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.[/carre_box]

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by marinating your protein while boiling the noodles; this multitasking approach saves time. Sear the protein in a hot skillet before tossing in the vegetables. Once everything is combined, add the sauce and let it simmer to meld those flavors beautifully.

Flavor Your Way

Get creative! Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu, and experiment with different veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. Add a kick with extra chili paste or go wild with fresh basil for that aromatic touch that will make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Drunken Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive the dish’s original texture and flavor without drying it out.

[carre_box title=”Chefs Helpful Tips for Drunken Noodles”] This professional-quality Drunken Noodles relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently. Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters. The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth. Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.[/carre_box]

There was this one time I whipped up Drunken Noodles for a casual Friday night dinner with friends. They devoured it so fast I thought someone was going to propose! The laughter and compliments made my heart swell; I knew I’d hit culinary gold that night!

FAQs

What is Drunken Noodles?

Drunken Noodles, also known as Pad Kee Mao, is a popular Thai dish known for its bold flavors and satisfying textures. This stir-fried noodle dish traditionally features flat rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and a variety of proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The dish gets its name from the idea that it pairs perfectly with a drink, making it a favorite among those enjoying a night out. It typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, basil, and chili peppers for an extra kick.

How do you make Drunken Noodles?

To prepare Drunken Noodles at home, start by cooking flat rice noodles according to package instructions. In a hot wok or large skillet, sauté garlic and your choice of protein until cooked through. Add in the cooked noodles along with bell peppers, broccoli, and Thai basil. For flavor, drizzle soy sauce and oyster sauce while tossing everything together until well combined. Adjust the spice level with chili flakes or fresh chilies based on your preference.

What can I serve with Drunken Noodles?

Drunken Noodles pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Consider serving them alongside fresh spring rolls or a light cucumber salad to balance the meal. For added crunch and freshness, garnishing with chopped peanuts or lime wedges enhances the overall experience. If you want to stick with the Thai theme, a side of Tom Yum soup can elevate your dining experience.

Can I make Drunken Noodles vegetarian?

Absolutely! Making vegetarian Drunken Noodles is easy and delicious. Simply replace meat with tofu or tempeh for protein while keeping the rice noodles and veggies intact. Use soy sauce or tamari for seasoning while ensuring all sauces are plant-based. Additionally, including an assortment of vegetables like carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers not only adds color but also increases nutritional value.

Conclusion

In summary, Drunken Noodles is a vibrant Thai dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. With options to customize according to dietary preferences—like vegetarian variations—this dish remains versatile and appealing to many palates. Whether enjoyed at home or ordered from your favorite restaurant, Drunken Noodles never disappoints in delivering an unforgettable culinary experience.

Pin2

2 Shares