Name: Drunken Noodles with Fresh Veggies: 5 Bold Flavors
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 200g flat wide rice noodles; 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste); 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 medium carrot, julienned; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed); 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegan option); 2 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil; 150g chicken breast, thinly sliced or 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined or 150g firm tofu, cubed or 150g beef strips; Fresh lime wedges; Chopped scallions; Crushed peanuts or cashews

Drunken Noodles with Fresh is a vibrant and spicy Thai stir-fry dish featuring chewy flat rice noodles, crisp fresh vegetables, fiery chili, and aromatic Thai basil. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be ready in just 25 minutes. Packed with flavors, you can customize it with your choice of protein, whether it’s chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold spices makes this dish a delight for the senses. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Drunken Noodles with Fresh

There are plenty of reasons to adore this dish. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Second, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your palate by adding more or fewer chilies. Third, the use of fresh vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. Fourth, it’s versatile; whether you choose Drunken Noodles with shrimp, chicken, or a vegetarian option, it’s bound to satisfy. Fifth, the aroma of fresh Thai basil elevates the dish to new heights. Lastly, it’s a perfect one-pan meal, which means less cleanup afterward!

Ingredients for Drunken Noodles with Fresh

Gather these items:

200g flat wide rice noodles
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 cup snap peas, trimmed
2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegan option)
2 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil
150g chicken breast, thinly sliced or 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined or 150g firm tofu, cubed or 150g beef strips
Fresh lime wedges
Chopped scallions
Crushed peanuts or cashews

How to Make Drunken Noodles with Fresh Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soak or boil the rice noodles as per package instructions until they are soft yet still have a slight chew. Drain thoroughly and toss with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
Step 2: Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced fresh chili, cooking until fragrant but not burnt. Add your choice of protein and stir-fry until fully cooked and lightly browned.
Step 3: Add bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes to keep the vegetables crisp and vibrant, preserving their natural sweetness and crunch.
Step 4: Gently fold in the prepared noodles followed by soy sauce and oyster sauce mixture. Toss everything well so the noodles evenly absorb the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Turn off the heat and immediately add a generous handful of fresh Thai basil leaves. Toss gently to wilt the basil with the residual heat, releasing its aromatic essence.

Pro Tips for the Best Drunken Noodles with Fresh

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be customized with your preferred protein, making it suitable for everyone.
Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice preference to create your perfect spicy Thai noodle dish.
Serve with fresh lime wedges and chopped scallions for added flavor.
Cook the vegetables quickly to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
Consider a mix of proteins for an exciting flavor profile.

Best Ways to Serve Drunken Noodles with Fresh

For an authentic experience, serve your Drunken Noodles alongside some fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or cashews. You can also pair this dish with a light cucumber salad to balance the heat. For those who enjoy a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of spring rolls or a spicy dipping sauce.

Drunken Noodles with Fresh Veggies: 5 Bold Flavors - Drunken Noodles with Fresh - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Drunken Noodles with Fresh

To store your Drunken Noodles with Fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from drying out. This is also a great meal prep option, as you can make a large batch in advance!

Frequently Asked Questions About Drunken Noodles with Fresh

What’s the secret to perfect Drunken Noodles with Fresh?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and cooking the vegetables quickly to maintain their texture and flavor. Ensuring your noodles are perfectly cooked and not overdone also contributes significantly to the final result.

Can I make Drunken Noodles with Fresh ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time but it’s best to cook them fresh for optimal taste and texture. You can store pre-cut vegetables and proteins in the fridge to save time on busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Drunken Noodles with Fresh?

Avoid overcooking the noodles and vegetables, as they can become mushy. Also, ensure your wok or skillet is hot enough before adding the ingredients to achieve that signature stir-fried flavor.

Variations of Drunken Noodles with Fresh You Can Try

There are numerous variations to explore when making Drunken Noodles. You can try using different proteins like beef or tofu for vegetarian Drunken Noodles. Additionally, consider adding other vegetables such as zucchini or broccoli for extra nutrition. For a unique twist, experiment with different sauces or add some pineapple for sweetness.

For more delicious recipes, check out our small batch apple pumpkin muffins or Japanese Yaki Udon recipe. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try our molten lava chocolate cake recipe!

For more information on the health benefits of Thai basil, you can visit Healthline.