Pad Kee Mao Recipe (Drunken Noodles) – Spicy Thai Stir-Fried Noodles

What is Pad Kee Mao?

Pad Kee Mao (ผัดขี้เมา), also known as Drunken Noodles, is a famous Thai street food dish. It features wide rice noodles stir-fried with garlic, chili, vegetables, and holy basil, along with your choice of protein.

Unlike Pad Thai (sweet and tangy) or Pad See Ew (savory soy sauce noodles), Pad Kee Mao is spicy, aromatic, and packed with flavor. It’s a bold dish for anyone who loves a bit of heat and the unmistakable aroma of Thai basil.

🛒 Ingredients for Pad Kee Mao (2 servings)

Noodles & Protein

• 200g wide rice noodles (sen yai)

• 200g protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, pork, beef, or tofu)

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2–3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)

• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced

• 1 cup onion, sliced

• 1 cup Thai holy basil leaves

Sauce (mix in a bowl)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Noodles

If using fresh noodles, gently separate them. If using dried, soak in warm water until softened.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Protein

Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Add protein and stir-fry until cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Add garlic and chilies to the wok. Stir-fry until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Vegetables & Noodles

Add bell peppers, onions, and softened noodles. Pour in the sauce and stir-fry quickly over high heat.

Step 6: Add Basil & Combine

Add holy basil leaves and cooked protein. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until the basil wilts. Serve hot.

📌 Pad Kee Mao Quick Recipe Card

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

Ingredients: Wide rice noodles, protein, garlic, chili, bell peppers, onion, holy basil, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar.

Instructions:

1. Prep noodles and sauce.

2. Stir-fry protein, remove.

3. Sauté garlic and chilies.

4. Add vegetables, noodles, and sauce, stir-fry.

5. Add basil and protein, stir-fry briefly, serve hot.

💡 Tips for Authentic Pad Kee Mao

• Use fresh Thai holy basil for the signature aroma.

• Cook over high heat for authentic wok flavor.

• Adjust chili quantity to suit your spice tolerance.

• Day-old rice noodles work better if using dried noodles.

• Optional: Add baby corn, carrots, or other vegetables for variation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1: What does Pad Kee Mao taste like?
Pad Kee Mao is savory, spicy, and aromatic, with the unique flavor of Thai holy basil.

Q2: Can I make Pad Kee Mao less spicy?
Yes, reduce or omit the bird’s eye chilies to suit your preference.

Q3: What is the difference between Pad Kee Mao and Pad See Ew?
Pad Kee Mao is spicy and aromatic with basil, while Pad See Ew is savory and slightly sweet with soy sauce and Chinese broccoli.

Q4: Can I make Pad Kee Mao vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Use tofu instead of meat and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or mushroom sauce.

Q5: Can I prepare Pad Kee Mao ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days and reheated quickly in a wok or skillet.

🏆 Why You’ll Love This Pad Kee Mao Recipe

✔ Authentic Thai street food flavor
✔ Quick and easy — ready in 20 minutes
✔ Customizable protein and vegetables
✔ Spicy, aromatic, and satisfying