Have you ever tasted Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)? This delightful dish from Thailand is famous for its silky noodles and vibrant mix of vegetables and proteins. The name itself translates to stir-fried glass noodles, hinting at its star ingredient—the translucent glass noodles, which are made from mung bean starch.
Originating from Thailand, Pad Woon Sen is known for its balance of flavors, merging savory, sweet, and umami into a hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it at a bustling street food stall in Bangkok or whipping it up at home, this dish brings a burst of flavors that tickle the taste buds. In this article, you’ll discover how to make Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) at home, the essential ingredients, variations, and some pro tips for the best results!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
| Glass Noodles | 200g | These delicate noodles are the main component, offering a chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. |
| Chicken Breast (or tofu) | 150g | Protein adds heartiness; chicken gives a lovely flavor, while tofu works great for a vegetarian choice. |
| Eggs | 2 | For a rich taste, eggs are scrambled into the dish, enhancing its texture and flavor. |
| Carrot | 1, julienned | This adds a sweet crunch, brightening up the dish both visually and taste-wise. |
| Bell Pepper | 1, sliced | Sweet bell pepper contributes color and a refreshing crunch. |
| Onion | 1, sliced | Onions add sweetness and depth, working beautifully with the other veggies. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor in Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles). |
| Soy Sauce | 3 tbsp | This savory sauce is essential for the classic taste, balancing the dish perfectly. |
| Oyster Sauce | 2 tbsp | It adds a unique umami flavor, making your Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) irresistible. |
| Vegetable Oil | 3 tbsp | For stir-frying, a neutral oil helps achieve that perfect sizzling effect. |
| Green Onions | 2, chopped | For garnish, adding a fresh note to the final dish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Start by soaking the glass noodles in warm water for about 20 minutes until they soften. Chop your vegetables and marinate the chicken (or tofu) with a pinch of salt and pepper for an authentic Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) taste.
- Cook the Base – Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté the minced garlic until golden brown, then add the sliced onions and cook until translucent.
- Add Chicken or Tofu – Toss in the marinated chicken (or tofu) and stir-fry until cooked through. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. The chicken should be browned and tender; tofu should be lightly golden.
- Incorporate Veggies – Add the julienned carrots and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 3 minutes until they are vibrant yet crisp.
- Mix in Noodles and Sauces – Drain the glass noodles and add them to the pan, along with the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
- Add Eggs – Create a well in the center of the pan and crack in the eggs. Allow them to scramble for a minute before mixing them into the noodle and veggie mix.
- Garnish and Serve – Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve your delicious Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) hot!
Pro Tips
- Use High Heat: Stir-fry quickly over high heat to retain the crunch of the vegetables and the texture of the noodles.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like snow peas or broccoli, for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate chicken (or tofu) the night before for a quick weeknight meal.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak the sauce at the end for your preferred balance of salty and sweet.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh cilantro or mint on top for an aromatic finish!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrition Component | Value per Serving |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Saturated Fats | 3g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 160mg |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Fat | 10g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan before serving.
Can Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) be made vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tofu for protein and swap with gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate dietary preferences.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)?
Fresh spring rolls or a light Thai salad would complement your meal beautifully.
How long does it take to prepare Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)?
Preparation and cooking take about 30-40 minutes total.
Can I freeze Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) for later?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat properly before eating.
What type of glass noodles should I use?
Mung bean starch noodles, often labeled as “glass noodles” or “cellophane noodles,” are ideal for this recipe.
Can I add more protein to Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)?
Yes! Shrimp, beef, or a mix of proteins work wonderfully with this dish.
How spicy is Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)?
It’s generally mild, but you can add chili flakes or fresh chilies if you like it hot!
Now that you have all the details on making Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles), it’s time to dive into the kitchen! This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different veggies and proteins. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and any personal twists you add to the recipe. Have you tried making Pad Woon Sen (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles) at home? Let us know your experience in the comments!
