Easy Pad See Ew

Pad see ew is a savory Thai noodle dish that’s straightforward to prepare at home. This easy version pairs noodles with broccoli and garlic, then brings everything together in a balanced sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. It serves two and works well for a weeknight meal.

Easy Pad See Ew with Broccoli

Pad see ew is often made with broad rice noodles known as kuaitiao sen yai. If those are difficult to find, flat noodles are a practical substitute; fettuccine-style noodles can also work. The texture will vary depending on the noodles you choose, so follow the package directions and avoid overcooking them before they go into the pan.

This home-style version is adapted for ingredients that are easy to find and is not presented as a traditional recipe. Cut the broccoli into evenly sized, bite-size pieces so it cooks at a similar rate.

Ingredients

• 6 oz. uncooked noodles
• 2 broccoli crowns, cut into bite-size pieces
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Serves: 2

How to Make Pad See Ew

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Different noodle types may need different cooking times. Drain them when ready, and reserve a little cooking water in case the broccoli needs extra moisture.
2. While the noodles cook, heat the sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the garlic and broccoli and cook until the broccoli softens and turns bright green. If needed, stir in a couple of spoonfuls of the reserved noodle water to help the broccoli cook.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes, if using.
4. Add the drained noodles to the pan with the broccoli and garlic. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat. Cook over medium heat until most of the moisture has been absorbed, stirring so the noodles and vegetables heat evenly.
5. Divide between two servings and finish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.

Helpful Tips

• Prepare the sauce before adding the cooked noodles so it can be poured into the pan without interrupting the cooking process.
• If the pan looks dry before the broccoli is tender, add noodle water a little at a time rather than pouring in a large amount.
• Red pepper flakes are optional; leave them out for a milder dish or include them for a touch of heat.
• Oyster sauce contains shellfish, so check the label and choose a suitable alternative if you need to avoid it. Soy sauce may also contain wheat or soy allergens.

This easy pad see ew is a flexible noodle dinner: use the flat noodles available to you, cook the broccoli until tender, and toss everything with the sauce while the noodles are warm. Finish with sesame seeds and cilantro just before serving.

— Emma