Ersatz Thai Fried Noodles

Experience the flavors of Southeast Asia with this quick and satisfying recipe for Ersatz Thai Fried Noodles. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish combines tender rice noodles tossed in a tangy soy-lime sauce with scrambled eggs, crunchy shredded carrots, and vibrant green onions. The addition of crushed peanuts and bean sprouts creates a delightful texture, while optional proteins like tofu or chicken make it incredibly versatile. Ready in just 35 minutes, this budget-friendly take on classic Pad Thai is perfect for when you’re craving bold flavors without the complexity. Garnish with chili flakes for a hint of heat and serve with lime wedges for an extra citrusy kick—your taste buds will thank you!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 200 grams Rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 cup Shredded carrots
• 3 Green onions
• 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Lime juice
• 1.5 tablespoons Brown sugar
• 0.5 cup Crushed peanuts
• 1 cup Bean sprouts
• 200 grams Optional protein (e.g., diced tofu or cooked chicken)
• 0.5 teaspoon Optional chili flakes

Directions

Step 1

Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 20-30 minutes until softened, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the noodles soak, mince the garlic, shred the carrots, and slice the green onions diagonally (white and green parts).

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar to create the sauce. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Step 4

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.

Step 5

Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6

Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them, cooking until just set. Push the eggs to one side of the pan.

Step 7

If using a protein, add it now and stir-fry briefly to warm it through.

Step 8

Add the softened rice noodles to the pan and pour the sauce evenly over them. Toss everything together using tongs or a spatula to coat the noodles evenly.

Step 9

Mix in the shredded carrots and green onion whites. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce.

Step 10

Add the crushed peanuts and bean sprouts to the pan, stirring gently to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more soy sauce or lime juice if needed.

Step 11

Remove from heat and garnish with green onion tops and optional chili flakes before serving.

Step 12

Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for added tang.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	978.8 grams (978.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1355

Total Fat 82.70g	106%
Saturated Fat 13.60g	68%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.00g
Cholesterol 372mg	124%
Sodium 2500mg	109%
Total Carbohydrate 109.60g	40%
Dietary Fiber 15.40g	55%
Total Sugars 28.70g
Protein 60.50g	121%

Vitamin D 82IU	410%
Calcium 966mg	74%
Iron 18mg	99%
Potassium 1728mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.2%

Protein: 17.0%

Carbs: 30.8%