Glass Noodle Stir-Fry (Pad Woon Sen)

In Thailand, Pad Woon Sen, also known as Glass Noodle Stir-Fry, is a delightful and versatile dish enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. This flavorful stir-fry showcases the unique texture and taste of glass noodles, also known as bean thread noodles, which are made from mung bean starch. The dish is often served with rice, but it can also stand alone as a satisfying single dish. With its quick and easy preparation, Pad Woon Sen is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as a delicious addition to your Thai culinary repertoire.

INGREDIENTS

• 80g Glass noodles
• 1/2 onion
• 4-6 cloves garlic
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon Golden Mountain sauce (or Maggi sauce)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 300g chicken, marinated (you could also use pork, beef, shrimp, or no meat altogether)
• 2 tomatoes, seeds removed
• 2/3 cup carrot
• 1 cup cabbage

PREPARATION

• Marinate the chicken in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce.
• If using dry noodles, soak them in water at room temperature for about 10 minutes until soft and pliable.
• Put the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Golden Mountain sauce into one cup.
• Cut up all the vegetables and garlic.
• Deseed the tomatoes and cut them up.

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add 2 tablespoons of oil to a wok or large pan and heat on high heat.
2. Add the garlic and onions and cook until the garlic is golden brown.
3. Add the chicken and cook until it splits apart and is about half cooked.
4. Make space in the pan for the eggs, add more oil, then add the eggs and scramble gently. When the eggs are half set, put the chicken, garlic, and onions on top, then stir and break up the eggs.
5. Add the cabbage and carrots, then pour in about half of the sauce to flavor the vegetables and chicken. Stir.
6. Add the noodles, the rest of the sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Toss everything together until the sauce is well distributed.
7. Add the tomatoes last and be careful not to cook them too long, or they will become mushy.
8. Turn off the heat and plate up. Serve with rice if desired.

TIPS

• For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more vegetables like tofu, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer Thai chilies.
• Be sure not to overcook the noodles, as they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for soaking and cooking time.

Pad Woon Sen, or Glass Noodle Stir-Fry, is a delightful Thai dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine – bold flavors, contrasting textures, and simplicity in preparation. This dish offers a perfect blend of soft, slippery glass noodles and tender chicken, complemented by the aromatic combination of garlic, onions, and fragrant sauces. The medley of fresh vegetables, from crunchy cabbage to juicy tomatoes, adds a burst of color and nutrients to the dish.

As you take your first bite of Pad Woon Sen, the harmonious fusion of sweet, salty, and savory flavors will transport you to the vibrant streets of Thailand, where the love of food unites people from all walks of life. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a side of fragrant Thai rice, Pad Woon Sen is a versatile and satisfying dish that will leave you craving for more.

In summary, Pad Woon Sen is a celebration of Thai culinary artistry, showcasing the rich tapestry of flavors and textures that make Thai cuisine so beloved around the world. With its delightful combination of glass noodles, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces, Pad Woon Sen is a dish that exemplifies the heart and soul of Thai street food – simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying.