Phat Si-io (also spelled Pad See Ew) is a beloved Thai stir-fry dish bursting with flavor. This dish features tender Rice noodles, savory soy sauce, fresh vegetables, and protein of your choice, all cooked together in a hot wok for a satisfying and delicious meal. It’s easy to make at home, making it a perfect weeknight dinner when craving Thai flavors.
With its salty, sweet, and slightly smoky notes, Phat Si-io is a go-to comfort food you can whip up quickly. Whether new to cooking Thai cuisine or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you through creating an authentic and mouthwatering dish.
Why You’ll Love This Phat Si-io Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Use your favorite protein—chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu—and load it up with vegetables.
- Delicious Balance: Combining soy sauces, sugar, and garlic creates a balanced, rich flavor.
- Authentic Taste: Get the classic street-food flavor of Thailand right at home.
Ingredients for Phat Si-io
This easy Thai stir-fry combines simple ingredients at most grocery stores or Asian markets for more authentic flavors.
Noodles and Protein:
- 8 oz wide Rice noodles (or flat Rice noodles)
- 1 lb chicken breast or pork, thinly sliced (or use tofu, beef, or shrimp)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup Chinese broccoli (gai lan) or regular broccoli, chopped
Sauces:
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color and depth)
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce (for flavor)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar (brown sugar works well for a slightly richer flavor)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh lime wedges
- Crushed peanuts
- Red chili flakes (for extra heat)
How to Make Phat Si-io: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Rice Noodles:
Begin by cooking the wide Rice noodles according to the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook them—they should be slightly firm as they will cook further in the stir-fry. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.
2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce:
Mix the dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, and set the sauce aside. This blend of savory and sweet will give your Phat Si-io its signature taste.
3. Cook the Protein:
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken (or your choice of protein) and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the protein from the pan and set it aside.
4. Scramble the Eggs:
Add more oil to the same pan and pour in the beaten eggs if needed. Scramble them quickly until they are just cooked, then remove from the pan and set aside with the cooked protein.
5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan and toss in the garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chopped Chinese broccoli or regular broccoli. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but crisp.
6. Add the Noodles and Sauce:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the noodles to the wok. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly. Stir-fry the noodles for about 2 minutes, letting them absorb the sauce and develop a slight char for that smoky, wok-fried flavor.
7. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the wok. Stir everything together until heated, ensuring the protein is evenly distributed among the noodles and vegetables.
Remove from the heat and serve the Phat Si-io immediately, garnished with fresh lime wedges, crushed peanuts, or red chili flakes for an extra kick.
Tips for Perfect Phat Si-io
- Use Fresh Rice Noodles: If you can find fresh wide Rice noodles at an Asian market, they’re ideal for this dish. If not, dried Rice noodles also work, but cook them sparingly.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Stir-fry the ingredients in batches if needed to ensure everything gets cooked adequately without steaming.
- Add a Smoky Flavor: For a more authentic taste, let the noodles sit in the hot wok for a few seconds without stirring, allowing them to char slightly before tossing them.
- Substitute the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out Chinese broccoli with any other vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or even bell peppers, depending on what you have on hand.
Why Phat Si-io is a Thai Street Food Favorite
Phat Si-io is a common sight on the streets of Thailand, cooked to perfection by vendors in smoking-hot woks over open flames. What makes this dish so popular is its simplicity and bold flavors. The contrast between the savory soy sauces, the slight sweetness from the sugar, and the earthy bite of garlic makes it irresistible. And, of course, the chewy Rice noodles and tender vegetables soak up all that flavor, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
In Thailand, Phat Si-io is usually enjoyed with spice—diners often sprinkle red chili flakes or drizzle chili-infused vinegar over the top for a spicy-sour kick. Whether you want it mild or spicy, this dish is versatile enough to cater to all palates.
Customizing Phat Si-io to Your Taste
One of the great things about Phat Si-io is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few ways you can make this dish your own:
- Vegetarian or Vegan Option: Simply omit the eggs and substitute tofu for the meat. You can also use a vegan oyster sauce or soy sauce.
- Extra Protein: If you prefer a heartier dish, add shrimp, pork, or a combination of proteins.
- Spicy Version: Add sliced Thai bird chilies or crushed red pepper during cooking for a spicy kick, or serve with chili sauce on the side.
Conclusion
This Delicious Phat Si-io Recipe brings the flavors of Thai street food into your home with ease. The combination of tender Rice noodles, savory soy-based sauce, and fresh vegetables makes for a balanced and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether cooking for yourself or serving family and friends, this easy Thai stir-fry delivers a prominent flavor in every bite.
So, skip the takeout and make Phat Si-io at home next time you’re craving Thai food! It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week.