If you’re looking to dive into the world of Thai cuisine, Pad Pak Bung Ruam is a fantastic place to start! This vibrant stir-fried dish, featuring juicy morning glory, has become beloved not just in Thailand but around the globe. Featuring a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, Pad Pak Bung Ruam is often served as a side dish, complementing a variety of main courses. Originating from the bustling markets of Bangkok, its unique flavors balance savory, sweet, and a hint of spice, making it a staple in Thai households as well as restaurants. In this article, you’ll discover how to make Pad Pak Bung Ruam at home, explore its ingredients, and learn some handy tips to elevate your dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Glory (Pak Bung) | 200g | Fresh morning glory adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor to the dish. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor in Pad Pak Bung Ruam. |
| Soy Sauce | 3 tablespoons | Dark soy sauce gives the dish a rich color and umami taste. |
| Oyster Sauce | 2 tablespoons | This adds a savory depth that complements the veggies beautifully. |
| Chili Paste | 1 tablespoon | A hint of spicy chili paste brightens up the flavors. |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tablespoons | Using a neutral oil allows the flavors of the ingredients to shine. |
| Salt | to taste | Adjust salt to enhance the overall flavor of your dish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients – Start by washing and cutting your fresh morning glory into 3-inch pieces. Mince the garlic finely, as this will help infuse its flavor throughout the dish. Preparing all your ingredients ahead of time is key to a smooth cooking process.
- Step 2: Heat the Oil – In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to burn!
- Step 3: Add the Morning Glory – Toss in the cut morning glory and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. You want it to wilt slightly but still retain its vibrant green color and crunch.
- Step 4: Flavor it Up – Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste. Stir everything together, ensuring all the veggies are well-coated in the flavorful sauces.
- Step 5: Season and Serve – Taste your Pad Pak Bung Ruam and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of lime juice before serving to give your Pad Pak Bung Ruam a zesty kick.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- If you’re a fan of protein, consider adding shrimp or tofu to your dish for a complete meal.
- Make sure your pan is hot enough to stir-fry; this keeps the vegetables crunchy and prevents them from stewing.
- Stir-fry only until the greens are vibrant; overcooking them can lead to a loss of nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Fat | 8g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Pad Pak Bung Ruam? – Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to retain its crunchy texture.
Can Pad Pak Bung Ruam be made vegan or gluten-free? – Absolutely! Use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce for a vegan version and gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Pad Pak Bung Ruam? – It pairs well with jasmine rice or as a side to grilled meats and curries.
How long does it take to prepare Pad Pak Bung Ruam? – From start to finish, you can whip up this dish in about 20 minutes!
Can I freeze Pad Pak Bung Ruam for later? – Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish, as the texture of the vegetables may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Is Pad Pak Bung Ruam spicy? – The spice level can be adjusted to your preference by controlling the amount of chili paste used.
Can I add protein? – Yes! Feel free to add tofu, shrimp, or chicken for a heartier meal.
What is the origin of Pad Pak Bung Ruam? – This dish hails from Thailand, where stir-fried vegetables are a daily staple, particularly in bustling street markets.
Pad Pak Bung Ruam is a wonderful representation of Thai cuisine’s vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, it can easily become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire. So, grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try! After you whip up this amazing dish, don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!
