As the sizzling aroma of garlic fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel that familiar excitement for a beloved favorite—Pad See Ew. This dish is a delightful homage to Thai street food, featuring tender rice noodles, rich umami sauces, and your choice of protein, whether it’s beef, chicken, pork, or tofu. Best of all, this quick and easy recipe lets you whip up a satisfying meal in under 20 minutes, making it a weeknight hero. Say goodbye to fast food cravings and hello to homemade goodness that’s ready to impress family and friends alike! Curious about how to infuse authentic flavors into your kitchen? Keep reading to discover just how simple it is to create this mouthwatering Pad See Ew at home.
Why is Pad See Ew a must-try?
Authentic Experience: Pad See Ew captures the essence of Thai street food, bringing bold flavors right to your kitchen.
Quick to Prepare: In under 20 minutes, you can recreate this comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Whether you prefer beef, chicken, pork, or tofu, this recipe adapts to your taste and dietary needs.
Flavor Explosion: A delightful combination of sweet soy sauces and garlic creates layers of umami that will leave you craving more.
Healthier Choice: Say goodbye to fast food—this homemade version is filled with fresh ingredients, offering both nutrition and satisfaction.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends alike with your culinary skills, turning any meal into a special occasion with this delicious Pad See Ew.
Ready to dive into even more homemade goodness? Check out my guide on easy meal prep ideas and elevate your home cooking game!
Pad See Ew Ingredients
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For the Noodles
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Fresh Wide Flat Rice Noodles – The ideal base for the dish, providing that chewy texture you love. Substitution: Use dried rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions.
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For the Protein
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Steak (8 oz) – Thinly sliced for a tender bite. Substitution: Chicken, pork, or tofu can be used for variations.
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For the Sauces
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Thai Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) – Adds salty, umami depth to the dish. Substitution: Regular soy sauce may be used, but flavor will differ.
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Oyster Sauce (2 tbsp) – A key ingredient that delivers a rich flavor.
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Thai Black Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) – Provides sweetness and color to the noodles. Regular soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be less rich.
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Fish Sauce (1 tbsp) – Enhances umami notes in this delicious Pad See Ew.
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For Flavor Balancing
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Brown Sugar (1/2 tsp + 1 ½ tbsp) – Balances savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
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Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors.
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For Cooking
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Vegetable Oil (2 tsp) – Perfect for sautéing ingredients. Can substitute with canola or peanut oil.
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For Additional Nutrients
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Chinese Broccoli (4 stalks, sliced) – Adds crunch and nutrition to the mix. Substitution: Regular broccoli or bok choy works as well.
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For Extra Richness
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Large Eggs (2, whisked) – Adds protein and enriches the flavor of the dish.
With just these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to a stunning homemade Pad See Ew that will keep you and your loved ones coming back for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pad See Ew
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine your thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of Thai soy sauce, 1½ tablespoons of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Make sure the beef is evenly coated in the marinade. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld while preparing your other ingredients, creating that authentic Pad See Ew taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
If using fresh wide flat rice noodles, gently unravel them and set them aside. For dried noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until just tender, usually about 5–7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial for achieving the right chewy texture in your Pad See Ew.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons of Thai black soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and an additional ½ teaspoon of brown sugar along with 2 tablespoons of water. Ensure the brown sugar dissolves completely to form a smooth sauce. This will give your Pad See Ew the rich and savory depth it’s known for.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until it’s browned and cooked through, looking juicy and tender. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, while keeping the delicious juices in the wok.
Step 5: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli
Add a splash more oil to the hot wok, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden. Add the sliced Chinese broccoli and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until it wilts but retains a vibrant green color. This step adds crunch and essential nutrients to your Pad See Ew.
Step 6: Scramble the Eggs
Push the sautéed broccoli and garlic to the side of the wok, creating room for the egg. Pour the whisked eggs into the empty space and let them sit for about 10 seconds before scrambling with a spatula. Cook until just set, then remove from the heat, ensuring each piece is fluffy and incorporated with the aromatic flavors of the Pad See Ew.
Step 7: Cook Noodles and Combine
With all the ingredients prepped, add your cooked rice noodles to the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, allowing the edges of the noodles to char slightly for added texture. Pour in your prepared sauce, tossing everything together to ensure the noodles are fully coated. Finally, add back the beef, broccoli, and scrambled eggs, mixing everything until combined and heated through. Serve your delicious Pad See Ew immediately!
Pad See Ew Serving Suggestions
Pair your delicious homemade Pad See Ew with complementary flavors and textures to elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ideas to serve alongside this mouthwatering dish:
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Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime over your Pad See Ew can enhance the flavors and add a refreshing zing that brightens each bite, making it truly irresistible.
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Thai Spring Rolls: These crispy, fresh spring rolls, filled with veggies and herbs, serve as a perfect appetizer, adding crunch and a burst of freshness before diving into your main dish.
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Cucumber Salad: A light and crisp cucumber salad with a tangy dressing provides a great contrast, balancing the hearty flavors of the Pad See Ew while cleansing the palate after each savory bite.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can complement your meal beautifully, offering a comforting and umami-rich experience that pairs wonderfully with the noodles’ flavors.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A side of lightly stir-fried seasonal vegetables adds extra nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate, harmonizing with the flavors of the Pad See Ew while creating a well-rounded meal.
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Jasmine Rice: If you’re feeling extra hungry, serve your Pad See Ew with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the rich sauces, providing a fulfilling experience for any meal.
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Chili Oil or Sauce: For an added kick, offer chili oil or your favorite hot sauce on the side, appealing to those who appreciate a bit of heat. Just a drizzle can transform the dish into a spicy delight!
With these serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal that highlights the fabulous flavors of your Pad See Ew. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t hesitate to explore more tasty side dishes to pair with this Thai favorite! If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my guide on easy homemade side dishes that can complement any meal.
Expert Tips for Pad See Ew
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High Heat Cooking: Make sure to use high heat when stir-frying to achieve that signature char on the noodles. This enhances the flavor of your Pad See Ew.
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Avoid Sticky Noodles: If using fresh wide flat rice noodles, gently unravel them to prevent sticking. If they’re sticking together, a splash of water can help loosen them.
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Marinating Time Counts: Allowing the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes is crucial for infusing flavors. Don’t rush this step for the best taste.
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Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Stir-fry the Chinese broccoli just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and crunch, adding texture to your dish.
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Fresh is Best: For the most authentic flavor, try to source fresh ingredients, especially the rice noodles. They make a noticeable difference in your Pad See Ew’s quality.
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Reheating Leftovers: When reheating leftover Pad See Ew, add a bit of water and cover with a wet paper towel in the microwave to keep the noodles from drying out.
Storage Tips for Pad See Ew
- Fridge: Store leftover Pad See Ew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: You can freeze Pad See Ew for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and split into portions for easy thawing.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam and revive the noodles without drying them out.
- Avoid Re-freezing: It’s best not to refreeze thawed Pad See Ew, as this may compromise the texture and taste.
What to Serve with Quick & Easy Pad See Ew
As you savor your homemade Pad See Ew, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.
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Thai Spring Rolls: These crispy delights filled with fresh vegetables provide a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the soft noodles of Pad See Ew. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for added zing.
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Coconut Rice: The creamy, subtle sweetness of coconut rice offers a wonderful contrast to the savory flavors of Pad See Ew, enhancing every bite. This dish brings a tropical twist to your meal.
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Thai Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and zesty, this salad’s crunch and tang balance the rich umami of the noodles. A sprinkle of peanuts adds an extra layer of texture.
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Lime Wedges: A simple but effective addition, a squeeze of lime over your Pad See Ew brightens the dish with acidity, elevating the overall flavors and refreshing your palate.
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Crispy Tofu Bites: For a protein-packed side, serve crispy tofu that’s lightly seasoned. Its crunchy exterior and soft center perfectly echo the texture of the main dish while enhancing its heartiness.
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Ginger Tea: A soothing cup of ginger tea pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of Pad See Ew, providing a warm finish to your meal and aiding digestion.
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Mango Sticky Rice: As a sweet finale, this dessert combines ripe mango with creamy coconut sticky rice, offering a delightful contrast to the savory noodles and rounding out your Thai feast.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pad See Ew noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and soak into the meat for that authentic taste. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, cook the noodles and stir-fry everything together, following the final steps in the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Pad See Ew Recipe FAQs
What type of rice noodles should I use for Pad See Ew?
Absolutely! Fresh wide flat rice noodles are the best choice for this dish as they provide that delightful chewy texture. If you can’t find fresh noodles, dried rice noodles will work too—just be sure to follow package instructions for cooking them, usually about 5–7 minutes, then rinse under cold water to prevent stickiness.
How long can I store leftover Pad See Ew?
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, and it’s a fantastic option for a quick meal later in the week.
Can I freeze Pad See Ew?
Yes! You can freeze Pad See Ew for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the noodles.
How can I avoid overcooking the Chinese broccoli?
Very! When stir-frying the Chinese broccoli, aim for about 1-2 minutes. You want to wilt it just enough so it remains bright green and crispy. Overcooking will result in a mushy texture, which we want to avoid for that perfect crunch in your Pad See Ew.
Is Pad See Ew gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of Pad See Ew, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure your noodles are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worry.

Delicious Pad See Ew: Homemade Thai Noodles in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine your thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of Thai soy sauce, 1½ tablespoons of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes.
- If using fresh wide flat rice noodles, gently unravel them or cook dried noodles according to the package instructions until just tender. Rinse under cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons of Thai black soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and ½ teaspoon of brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned.
- Add minced garlic to the wok, sauté for about 30 seconds, then stir-fry sliced Chinese broccoli for 1-2 minutes.
- Push the sautéed veggies to the side, pour in the whisked eggs and scramble them until just set.
- Add cooked noodles to the wok, stir-fry for 30 seconds. Pour in the prepared sauce, mix everything together and add back the beef, broccoli, and eggs.
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