Italian Drunken Noodles, a delightful fusion of Italian and Thai cuisines, bring together the bold flavours of Italy with the spicy and aromatic elements of Thai cuisine. This unique dish features wide egg noodles tossed with Italian sausage, bell peppers, tomatoes, and a rich, garlicky wine sauce. The wine not only adds depth and complexity to the sauce but also ties the ingredients together beautifully, creating a symphony of flavours in every bite.

About Italian Drunken Noodles

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Italian Drunken Noodles are sure to impress your family and guests. The dish is hearty yet fresh, thanks to the vibrant vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re a fan of Italian food, Thai cuisine, or both, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Here is your Tasty & Crusty Italian Bread Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Italian Drunken Noodles Recipe: Step-by-Step

Recipe by Eric

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

35

minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 oz wide egg noodles

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 orange bell pepper, sliced

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1/2 cup dry white wine

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

• Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Prepare the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), white wine, and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
• Combine and Serve: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the cooked noodles and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the fresh basil and parsley. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Ideas for Serving

• With Crusty Bread: Serve Italian Drunken Noodles with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with this hearty dish.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the flavours of the dish beautifully.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg

History

Italian Drunken Noodles are a modern fusion dish that combines elements from Italian and Thai cuisine. While traditional drunken noodles (Pad Kee Mao) are a staple in Thai cooking, this Italian version swaps out the usual rice noodles and Asian flavors for ingredients more commonly found in Italian kitchens, such as Italian sausage and bell peppers. The dish has gained popularity for its unique flavor profile and the creative blend of two beloved culinary traditions.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the wide egg noodles with other pasta types such as fettuccine, pappardelle, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables or use a plant-based sausage.

3. What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice for a similar depth of flavour.

4. How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.