Introduction
Italian Drunken Noodles are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the best of Italian and Thai cuisines. This fusion recipe takes the concept of Thai drunken noodles (Pad Kee Mao) and infuses it with Italian flavors. The result is a delightful medley of spicy Italian sausage, bell peppers, tomatoes, and broad noodles, all brought together with a hint of wine, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
The origin of the term “drunken noodles” in Thai cuisine is often attributed to the idea that the dish is perfect for sobering up after a night of drinking, thanks to its bold and spicy flavors. In this Italian twist, the use of wine not only adds to the “drunken” theme but also imparts a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pappardelle or fettuccine noodles
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle or fettuccine noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high 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 sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce:
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Italian Drunken Noodles to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion
Italian Drunken Noodles are a delightful fusion dish that brings together the hearty, comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with a touch of Thai-inspired heat and excitement. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, all enhanced by a splash of wine, creates a dish that’s full of depth and character.
This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or entertaining guests. The vibrant colors and bold flavors will surely make it a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious fusion of flavors, and savor the unique taste of Italian Drunken Noodles!
