Rad Na Recipe (ราดหน้า) – Thai Stir-Fried Noodles in Gravy

What is Rad Na?

Rad Na (ราดหน้า) is a popular Thai-Chinese street food dish featuring wide rice noodles (sen yai) topped with a thick, savory gravy. The gravy is made with soy sauce, stock, and sometimes oyster sauce, creating a smooth, flavorful coating over the noodles.

Unlike Pad Thai (sweet & tangy noodles) or Pad See Ew (savory stir-fry), Rad Na has a comforting, saucy texture that makes it a favorite among locals. Common toppings include Chinese broccoli (kai lan), tofu, chicken, pork, or seafood.

Flavor Characteristics of Rad Na

Rich Gravy: Made with stock, soy sauce, and cornstarch, the gravy smoothly coats every strand of noodles.

Tender Meat Slices: The meat is marinated in advance for flavor, then cooked together with vegetables, resulting in a sweet and savory taste.

Chewy Noodles: The wide rice noodles have a smooth, slightly chewy texture that perfectly complements the thick gravy.

Aromatic: Garlic, pepper, or chili can be added to enhance aroma and layers of flavor.

🛒 Ingredients for Rad Na (2 servings)

Noodles & Protein

• 200g wide rice noodles (sen yai)

• 150g protein (chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu)

Vegetables

• 1 cup Chinese broccoli (kai lan), chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Gravy Sauce

• 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Noodles and Vegetables

If using fresh noodles, separate gently. If using dried, soak until softened. Wash and chop Chinese broccoli.

Step 2: Stir-Fry Protein

Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add protein and stir-fry until cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic & Vegetables

Add garlic to the wok and stir-fry until fragrant. Add Chinese broccoli and stir-fry briefly.

Step 4: Prepare Gravy

Pour in stock, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, then add cornstarch slurry slowly, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Noodles & Serve

Place cooked noodles on a plate, pour the gravy mixture with vegetables and protein over the top. Serve hot.

📌 Rad Na Quick Recipe Card

Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 20 mins
Servings: 2

Ingredients: Wide rice noodles, protein, Chinese broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken/vegetable stock, sugar, cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Prep noodles and vegetables.

2. Stir-fry protein and set aside.

3. Sauté garlic and broccoli.

4. Make gravy with stock, sauces, and cornstarch.

5. Pour gravy over noodles, serve hot.

💡 Tips for Perfect Rad Na

• Use fresh wide rice noodles for best texture.

• High heat stir-fry for protein and vegetables before adding gravy.

• Adjust the gravy thickness by adding more or less cornstarch.

• Use Chinese broccoli for authentic flavor; kale or spinach can be substitutes.

• Add a drizzle of black vinegar or chili on the side for extra flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What makes Rad Na authentic?
Authentic Rad Na uses fresh wide rice noodles, thick savory gravy, and Chinese broccoli with your choice of protein.

Q2: Can I make Rad Na vegetarian?
Yes, use tofu or vegetables as protein and vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Q3: Is Rad Na spicy?
Traditional Rad Na is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes if desired.

Q4: Can I use other greens instead of Chinese broccoli?
Yes, kale or bok choy can be used as a substitute, but kai lan gives the authentic Thai flavor.

Q5: Can Rad Na be made ahead of time?
The noodles are best served fresh, but leftover gravy can be stored in the fridge and reheated.

🏆 Why You’ll Love This Rad Na Recipe

✔ Authentic Thai-Chinese street food flavor
✔ Easy and quick — ready in 20 minutes
✔ Comforting, saucy, and satisfying
✔ Customizable protein and vegetables