Pad See Ew
ผัดซีอิ๊ว
Pad See Ew is the darker, smokier cousin of Pad Thai - a Chinese-influenced stir-fry that showcases the art of wok hei (breath of the wok). These silky rice noodles are kissed by flames, creating slightly charred edges while sweet dark soy sauce caramelizes into perfection. It's comfort food at its finest - simple ingredients transformed by technique and blazing heat.
Ingredients
Fresh Wide Rice Noodles
Wide surface area to catch wok hei and absorb sauce
Substitutes: Dried wide rice noodles, Fresh ho fun noodles, Fettuccine (emergency only)
Dark Sweet Soy Sauce
Creates the signature dark color and sweet-savory flavor
Substitutes: Regular soy sauce with palm sugar, Kecap manis
Chinese Broccoli
Adds slight bitterness and crunch to balance richness
Substitutes: Regular broccoli, Bok choy, Kale
Cooking Method
Technique
High-heat wok charring
Overview
The wok must be screaming hot - so hot it seems dangerous. Noodles are added in small batches, allowed to char slightly before tossing. The whole process takes under 3 minutes but requires constant motion and split-second timing.
Cooking Tips
- If your wok isn't smoking, it's not hot enough
- Work in small batches - overcrowding kills wok hei
- Let noodles sit and char before first toss
- Keep ingredients moving with a scooping motion
- If it's not slightly smoky, you're doing it wrong
Cultural Significance
Origin Story
Brought by Teochew Chinese immigrants to Thailand. The dish evolved from Chinese chow fun, adapted with Thai ingredients and sweeter flavor profile to suit local tastes.
Cultural Importance
Pad See Ew represents the Thai-Chinese fusion that defines much of Bangkok's food culture. It's working-class fuel - cheap, filling, and available 24/7 from street carts.
Traditional Occasions
Variations
Pad See Ew Moo
Pork version - the most common and traditional
Pad See Ew Talay
Seafood version with squid and shrimp
Pad See Ew Sen Yai
Extra-wide noodles for maximum wok hei
Quick Info
Where to Find
Best Restaurants
- • Jay Fai (Bangkok) - Michelin-starred street food
- • Soei Restaurant (Bangkok) - Old-school perfection
- • Any shophouse with a jet engine wok burner
Street Food Areas
- • Chinatown after dark
- • Silom Soi 20 food stalls
- • Victory Monument street vendors
Price Ranges
Nutritional Info
Varies by preparation
- • Rich in Thai herbs and spices
- • Balanced flavors
