Swoon Over Pad See Ew: The Umami-Rich Thai Noodle Dish That Will Make You Forget Pad Thai!

Pad see ew and pad thai are two of the most popular Thai dishes worldwide. Both are stir-fried rice noodles with a sweet and savory sauce, but there are some key differences between the two.

Ingredients

Pad See Ew

• Wide rice noodles (chan noodles)
• Dark soy sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Garlic
• Chinese broccoli
• Eggs

Pad Thai

• Thin rice noodles
• Tamarind paste
• Fish sauce
• Palm sugar
• Bean sprouts
• Peanuts
• Lime wedges

Flavor Profile

Pad See Ew

• Rich, savory, and slightly sweet
• Pronounced flavors of dark soy sauce and oyster sauce
• Earthy notes from Chinese broccoli

Pad Thai

• Sweet, tangy, and slightly sour
• Balanced flavors of tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar
• Freshness from bean sprouts and lime wedges

Texture

Pad See Ew

• Chewier and more resilient noodles
• Slightly crispy edges from the stir-frying
• Tender and crunchy Chinese broccoli

Pad Thai

• Soft and tender noodles
• Slightly sticky and chewy texture
• Crunchy bean sprouts and peanuts

Appearance

Pad See Ew

• Darker in color due to the dark soy sauce
• Often served with a runny egg on top
• Less colorful compared to pad thai

Pad Thai

• Vibrant orange-brown color from the tamarind paste
• Garnished with bright green bean sprouts and crushed peanuts
• More visually appealing

Origin

Pad See Ew

• Originated in Thailand, specifically in the central region
• Popular street food and home-cooked dish

Pad Thai

• Created in the 1930s as a national dish to promote Thai cuisine
• Has become a global symbol of Thai food

Which Dish to Choose?

The choice between pad see ew and pad thai ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prefer a savory and rich dish with a chewy texture, pad see ew is a great option. If you enjoy a sweet and tangy dish with soft noodles, pad thai is a better choice.

Additional Differences

• Noodles: Pad see ew uses wide, flat rice noodles, while pad thai uses thin, round rice noodles.
• Sauce: Pad see ew sauce is made with a combination of dark soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce, while pad thai sauce is made with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar.
• Vegetables: Pad see ew typically includes Chinese broccoli, while pad thai includes bean sprouts.
• Garnish: Pad see ew is often garnished with a runny egg, while pad thai is garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges.

The Bottom Line: The Verdict

While pad see ew and pad thai share some similarities, they are distinct dishes with unique flavors, textures, and origins. Pad see ew offers a savory and rich experience, while pad thai provides a sweet and tangy delight. Ultimately, the best dish for you depends on your personal preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. What is the difference between pad see ew and pad thai?

Pad see ew uses wide rice noodles, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce, while pad thai uses thin rice noodles, tamarind paste, and fish sauce. Pad see ew is typically savory and rich, while pad thai is sweet and tangy.

2. Which dish is more popular?

Pad thai is more popular globally, as it has become a symbol of Thai cuisine. Pad see ew is more popular in Thailand, particularly in the central region.

3. Can I make pad see ew or pad thai at home?

Yes, both dishes can be easily made at home with the right ingredients and a simple stir-fry technique.

4. What are some variations of pad see ew and pad thai?

Variations include different vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, added to the stir-fry. Some versions may also include meat or seafood.

5. What are some tips for making a great pad see ew or pad thai?

Use high-quality ingredients, cook the noodles to the correct doneness, and balance the flavors of the sauce.