Pad Thai is a beloved Thai street food that combines a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. This iconic dish, featuring stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, or chicken, is garnished with fresh lime and crunchy peanuts, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating an authentic Pad Thai experience right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup shrimp or tofu
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 55g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Soak the rice noodles in hot water for 30 minutes until softened.
- In a pan, heat oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add shrimp or tofu and cook until golden brown.
- Push the shrimp/tofu to one side and crack in the eggs, scrambling them.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the pan.
- Pour in fish sauce, tamarind paste, and sugar; stir well to combine.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions, tossing everything together.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges.
- Enjoy your homemade Pad Thai!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a vegan version. Additionally, peanuts can be replaced with cashews or omitted if allergies are a concern.
Serving and Pairings
Pad Thai pairs wonderfully with fresh spring rolls, a side of Thai cucumber salad, or a chilled Thai iced tea for a refreshing complement to the meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Pad Thai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to a month; just thaw and reheat thoroughly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not soaking the noodles long enough.
- Using too much fish sauce can overpower the dish.
- Overcooking the shrimp or tofu will make them rubbery.
- Skipping the garnishes detracts from the dish’s flavor.
- Not stirring quickly enough can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Use high heat for a quick stir-fry to keep ingredients crisp.
- Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook.
- Experiment with different proteins and vegetables.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
FAQs
Can I make Pad Thai vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.
What type of noodles are best for Pad Thai?
Flat rice noodles are traditional and provide the best texture for this dish. Look for “Pad Thai” or “rice stick” noodles.
How can I make Pad Thai spicier?
Add red chili flakes or fresh chili peppers while cooking for an extra kick. You can also serve it with a chili sauce on the side.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance but cook it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Pad Thai?
Pad Thai pairs well with fresh salads, spring rolls, or a light soup for a complete meal experience.
Conclusion
Pad Thai is a versatile and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Enjoy creating your own delicious version and savor every bite!
Pad Thai Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup shrimp or tofu
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions sliced
- 1/4 cup peanuts crushed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 lime cut into wedges
Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles in hot water for 30 minutes until softened.
- In a pan, heat oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add shrimp or tofu and cook until golden brown.
- Push the shrimp/tofu to one side and crack in the eggs, scrambling them.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the pan.
- Pour in fish sauce, tamarind paste, and sugar; stir well to combine.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions, tossing everything together.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges.
- Enjoy your homemade Pad Thai!
