Pad Mee Kati, a beloved Thai noodle dish, offers a captivating blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy flavors. Its rich, creamy coconut milk broth forms the heart of this culinary masterpiece, enveloping perfectly cooked noodles and a medley of vibrant ingredients. The key to its irresistible taste lies in the careful balance of ingredients and the precise cooking technique. From the aromatic shrimp paste to the tender pieces of pork or chicken, each element contributes to a symphony of tastes that tantalize the palate. This is more than just a meal; it's an experience.
This simple yet deeply satisfying dish is surprisingly easy to master, and you'll find yourself creating this culinary delight time and again. Ready to embark on a flavourful journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step process that will transform simple ingredients into a truly authentic Pad Mee Kati.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Mortar and pestle
Ingredients
- Dried chili peppers
- Salt
- Shallots
- Shrimp paste
- Shrimp
- Coconut milk
- Water
- Palm sugar
- Tamarind juice
- Fish sauce
- Thin noodles
- Bean sprouts
- Chives
- Sour mango
- Lime
- Dark soy sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Coconut Curry Paste and Sauce
- Soak dried chilies in water. In a mortar, add salt, soaked chilies, shallots, and shrimp paste. Pound until a curry paste consistency is achieved.
- Put the pan on medium heat and pour in the coconut milk. Add the pounded curry paste and mix until combined. Add water to rinse the pot, if needed.
- Season with palm sugar, tamarind juice, and fish sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens and changes color.
Step 2. Cook the Shrimp and Noodles
- Add the shrimp and stir-fry until cooked and pink. Set aside.
- Add the thin noodles to the sauce and stir-fry until the noodles absorb the sauce. Add plain water if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 3. Season and Finish the Noodles
- Add sugar and dark soy sauce, mixing well. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve the noodles with the cooked shrimp, bean sprouts, chives, sour mango, and a squeeze of lime.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Soaking the dried chilies makes them easier to pound.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be cooked through and change color.
- Overcooked shrimp will become tough.
- Add water to the noodles to prevent sticking while stir-frying.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes! Rice noodles, egg noodles, or even spaghetti work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have fish sauce?
Soy sauce can be substituted, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian/vegan?
Absolutely! Omit the shrimp paste and any meat. You can add tofu, vegetables, or mushrooms for protein and flavor.
This Southern-style stir-fried noodle recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic, showcasing the creamy richness of coconut milk alongside bold Southern flavors. Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and tastes in every bite, from the tender noodles to the vibrant vegetables. Now go forth and create your own delicious, personalized version of this comforting and flavorful dish!