If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines comforting noodles with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine, look no further than Thai Beef Drunken Noodles. This dish is a symphony of savory, sweet, and spicy, featuring tender ribeye steak and a medley of vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich sauce that clings to the wide rice noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

The name “drunken noodles” actually has little to do with alcohol; rather, it refers to the dish’s spice and bold flavors that could awaken anyone from a stupor. Traditionally made with wide rice noodles, this version includes a delightful combination of sauces that elevate the taste and bring the dish to life. Let’s dive into the details of making your own Thai Beef Drunken Noodles!

What Makes This Recipe Special

The magic of Thai Beef Drunken Noodles lies in its harmony of flavors and textures. The tender ribeye steak, combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the fragrant notes of Thai basil, creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also visually stunning. The sauce, made from a balance of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of fish sauce, ensures each bite is packed with umami goodness. Plus, the heat from the Thai red chilies can be adjusted to suit your palate, making it a versatile recipe for spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.

What You’ll Gather

8 ounces wide rice noodles
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup water
3 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon fish sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound thinly sliced ribeye steak
2-4 Thai red chilies, seeded and thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, cored and thinly sliced
1 small yellow onion, peeled and thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Thai basil leaves, roughly chopped
2 green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only)

Equipment Breakdown

Large pot: For boiling the rice noodles.
Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying ingredients quickly over high heat.
Cutting board and knife: For slicing vegetables and meat.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Wooden spatula or tongs: For stirring and tossing the noodles and ingredients.

How to Prepare Thai Beef Drunken Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the wide rice noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, water, oyster sauce, dark brown sugar, and fish sauce. Set this sauce mixture aside as it will add depth to your Thai Beef Drunken Noodles.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough.

Step 5: Incorporate the Noodles

Add the cooked rice noodles to the skillet, followed by the sauce you prepared earlier. Toss everything together gently to ensure the noodles are well-coated in the sauce and mixed with the beef and vegetables.

Step 6: Add Fresh Ingredients

Stir in the sliced Thai red chilies and roughly chopped Thai basil leaves. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the basil to wilt slightly and the chilies to infuse their heat into the dish.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve your Thai Beef Drunken Noodles hot, and enjoy the beautiful meld of flavors in every bite!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

Rice noodles: You can substitute with wide egg noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Ribeye steak: Flank steak or sirloin can be used as alternatives.
Oyster sauce: If unavailable, try a mushroom-based sauce for a similar umami flavor.
Fish sauce: Soy sauce mixed with a bit of lemon juice can serve as a substitute.

Notes on Ingredients

To ensure the best flavor, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Thai basil is key to achieving the authentic taste of this dish, as it has a unique flavor that is slightly different from regular basil. If you can’t find it, regular basil can be used in a pinch, but the taste will vary slightly. For the beef, thinly slicing against the grain will yield the most tender bites. Adjust the number of Thai red chilies based on your spice tolerance.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the noodles seem dry. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked noodles and beef mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ribeye steak with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version of Thai Beef Drunken Noodles. You can also replace the oyster sauce and fish sauce with plant-based alternatives.

What can I serve with Thai Beef Drunken Noodles?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a side of spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. A light soup can also pair nicely.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be easily adjusted based on your preference. Start with fewer Thai red chilies and taste as you go, adding more if you like it spicier.

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?

While regular basil can be used, it won’t provide the same distinct flavor as Thai basil. If you want the authentic taste of Thai Beef Drunken Noodles, seek out Thai basil at an Asian market or a well-stocked grocery store.

Final Bite

Thai Beef Drunken Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai street food right to your kitchen. With its combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe captures the heart of Thai cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will impress with its bold flavors and satisfying texture. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a plate of delicious Thai Beef Drunken Noodles that will have everyone asking for seconds!