Pad Thai vs Pad See Ew? What’s the difference??
Pad Thai Vs Pad See Ew? If you’re a fan of Thai noodle dishes (like me!) you’ve likely come across Pad Thai and Pad See Ew on a Thai restaurant menu and probably wondered what in the world their names means and what’s unique about each one. I got you!
In this post, I’ll break down the key differences between Pad Thai and Pad See Ew, answer some common questions, and help you decide which one to try next—or better yet, which to make at home next!
Expert Thai Cooking Class Teacher
Pad Thai vs Pad See Ew
| Pad Thai | Pad See Ew |
|---|---|
| Sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy | Sweet and savory |
| Thin rice noodles | Wide rice noodles |
| Topped with peanuts and lime | No toppings |
| Tangy tamarind flavor | Rich soy sauce flavor |
| Customizable spice level | Not spicy |
| Crowd-pleaser for all ages | Great for kids and mild-food lovers |
What Is Pad Thai?
Pad Thai (ผัดไทย) is one of the most loved Thai dishes all over the world, and my most requested dish I teach at my Thai cooking classes.
It’s a stir-fried noodle dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a refreshing crunch from toppings like peanuts and bean sprouts, and a spicy hit from dried Thai chili flakes.
Here’s what else makes Pad Thai amazing:
- Noodles: Thin rice noodles are used, giving the dish a light and springy texture. I love to use fresh rice noodles I find in the refrigerated section of the Asian market, since they are so easy to work with, but dried rice noodles work in a pinch.
- Flavor Profile: A perfect mix of tamarind’s tanginess, palm sugar’s sweetness, and fish sauce’s umami.
- Protein: Shrimp and fried tofu are the traditional proteins used in Thailand, but chicken, pork or beef works too!
- Vegetables: Bean sprouts, garlic chives, and pickled radish are typically used in Thailand. Since bean sprouts can be hard to find, sometimes I substitute green beans for the bean sprouts, since that’s how they eat it in Thai Hubby’s hometown in Sukhothai, Thailand. And green onions are a great substitute for garlic chives.
- Toppings: Crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and Thai chili flakes. Perfect trinity!
- Cooking Style: Stir-fried in a large pan (I like to use a massive cast iron) with eggs, creating a slightly caramelized, smoky flavor.
What Is Pad See Ew?
Pad See Ew (ผัดซีอิ๊ว), meaning “soy sauce stir-fry,” is a comforting dish known for its bold, savory flavors and chewy noodles.
Here’s what makes Pad See Ew special:
- Noodles: Wide rice noodles, aka sen yai, give the dish its hearty, chewy texture that my 4 half-Thai kids adore!
- Flavor Profile: Rich and savory with a hint of sweetness from dark soy sauce and sugar.
- Protein: Thinly sliced chicken, pork are most often used in Thailand, but tofu works too. Thai Hubby’s fav is Beef Pad See Ew!
- Vegetables: Traditionally made with Chinese broccoli, though kale, turnip greens, or regular broccoli are substitutes I often use since I often can’t find Chinese broccoli.
- Cooking Style: Stir-fried in a hot wok, creating a smoky, caramelized flavor. Sooo gooood!
Your Questions Answered
How do you pronounce Pad See Ew? What does Pad See Ew mean?
It’s pronounced “Pad See You.” Pad See Ew translates to “soy sauce stir-fry” in Thai, highlighting its rich soy-based flavor.
Is Pad Thai or Pad See Ew better? Should I order Pad Thai or Pad See Ew at a Thai restaurant?
I don’t think one is better than the other, it really depends on your taste preferences and what you are in the mood for!
If you are craving sweet, tangy, spicy flavors with a bit of crunch, go for Pad Thai. If you are longing for rich, savory flavors and heart-warming noodles, Pad See Ew is right for you.
Is Pad Thai or Pad See Ew healthier?
Both dishes can be healthy if made with less oil and lots of veggies.
Pad Thai has bean sprouts which are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber that support digestion and immunity, while the tamarind in the sauce is packed with nutrients and compounds that aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.
Pad See Ew has Chinese broccoli, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. It’s great for digestion, bone health, heart health, immunity, and weight management.
So add in extra of the veggies in either dish to get extra health benefits!
What are some good substitutes for Thai rice noodles in Pad See Ew and Pad Thai?
If you can’t find Thai rice noodles, you can use fettuccine, spaghetti (check out my Pad See Ew Spaghetti recipe!), or even flat egg noodles. Bean vermicelli or zucchini noodles are great low-carb options.
Why do tourists who come to Thailand like to eat Pad Thai?
Pad Thai is a perfect intro to Thai cuisine. Its sweet and tangy flavors are easy-to-please, you know what it is when you see it on a Thai menu in Thailand, and it’s easy to pronounce if you don’t know Thai and are ordering it on the streets of Thailand.
How do I make a Thai Pad See Ew?
I have you covered! Check out my Pad See Ew Recipe here!
How can I make authentic chicken Pad Thai?
Here is my Pad Thai recipe that Thai Hubby says is better than the one from the streets of Thailand!
Sherri’s Thoughts on Pad Thai vs Pad See Ew
Pad Thai is the dish I recommend for anyone new to Thai food. Its balance of flavors makes it such a crowd pleaser!
My Thai cooking class students I teach always say that the version I make tastes more authentic than the ones they have in Thai restaurants. My 4 half-Thai kiddos adore it, especially with extra peanuts and without chili flakes!
Pad See Ew, on the other hand, is my go-to when I’m craving something cozy and satisfying. The chewy noodles and rich soy sauce flavor feel like a warm hug after a hard day, and my kiddos don’t need any convincing to finish dinner when Pad See Ew is on the menu!
Make It at Home!
Want to try making Pad Thai or Pad See Ew at home? Here are my tips:
- Noodles: Use fresh rice noodles if possible! You’ll find them in the refrigerated section of your local Asian market.
- Wok Hei: Cook on high heat to achieve the smoky flavor that makes them taste from the streets of Thailand!
- Customize: Thai food is all about making it taste just the way you like it! Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spice level to match your tastebuds preference!
Have you tried both? Let me know your fav in the comments below!
Looking for more Thai noodle dishes? Check these out:
- Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles)
- Pad See Ew vs Pad Kee Mao: Key Differences Explained
- Is Pad See Ew Gluten-Free? What You Need to Know and Recipe
- Pad See Ew Recipe Vegan
- Beef Pad See Ew Recipe
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