Spicy Thai Drunken Noodles
A bold, savory, and spicy stir-fry featuring wide rice noodles, fresh Thai basil, and a punchy chili-garlic sauce.
How to Make Spicy Thai Drunken Noodles
Total time: 30 min · Yields 2 servings
- 1
Prepare the Aromatics
Using a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic and Thai chilies together until they form a coarse paste. This releases the essential oils for a more fragrant dish.
- 2
Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- 3
Sauté the Protein
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Add the chili-garlic paste and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken slices and cook until they change color.
- 4
Flash-Fry Vegetables
Toss in the bell peppers, bamboo shoots, and Chinese broccoli. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- 5
Noodle Char and Finish
Add the rice noodles and the sauce mixture to the wok. Toss vigorously over high heat for 2 minutes to allow the noodles to absorb the sauce and develop a slight char. Turn off the heat and fold in the basil leaves until wilted.
Chef's Tips
- Do not overcook the noodles during prep; they should be slightly firm as they will finish cooking in the wok.
- Use a high-smoke point oil like peanut or canola to achieve 'wok hei' or the breath of the wok.
- If you can't find Thai basil, Italian basil with a dash of black pepper is a decent substitute.
What to Serve with Spicy Thai Drunken Noodles
The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.
- Serve with a wedge of lime to brighten the flavors.
- Top with a crispy fried egg for extra richness.
- Pair with a cold Thai iced tea to balance the spice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with firm tofu and use vegetarian mushroom sauce instead of oyster and fish sauce.
Why are my noodles breaking?
This usually happens if the noodles are over-soaked or if you toss them too aggressively. Use a wide spatula to fold the noodles gently.
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