Pad Thai is a beloved Thai street food that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. This dish combines rice noodles, protein, and vegetables, all dressed in a tangy tamarind sauce. With its vibrant colors and delightful textures, Pad Thai is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup shrimp or chicken, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 3 green onions, sliced
– 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed
– 2 tbsp tamarind paste
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 tbsp sugar
– Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of Pad Thai contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 15g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes until soft.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in the shrimp or chicken, cooking until fully cooked.
5. Push the protein to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs.
6. Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix with the protein.
7. Drain the noodles and add them to the pan.
8. Stir in tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar, mixing well.
9. Add bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for another 2 minutes.
10. Serve hot, garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute shrimp or chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a vegan dish, and adjust the level of spice with chili flakes to taste.
Serving and Pairings
Pad Thai pairs beautifully with a side of fresh spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad. For drinks, try a Thai iced tea or a light lager to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the noodles. Although it’s best fresh, Pad Thai can be frozen for up to a month; just be aware that the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t over-soak the noodles; they should be al dente.
– Avoid using too much oil, or the dish will be greasy.
– Don’t skip the tamarind paste; it’s essential for flavor.
– Make sure the pan is hot enough to prevent sticking.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan with ingredients; cook in batches if needed.
Helpful Tips
– Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook for efficiency.
– Use fresh lime juice for a bright flavor boost.
– Customize the protein to your preference; shrimp, chicken, or tofu all work well.
– Fresh cilantro enhances the dish, so don’t skip it!
FAQs
What is Pad Thai?
Pad Thai is a traditional Thai stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles, protein, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It’s one of Thailand’s most famous street foods, enjoyed worldwide.
Can I make Pad Thai vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce to create a vegetarian or vegan version of Pad Thai.
What type of noodles are used in Pad Thai?
Rice noodles are the traditional choice for Pad Thai. They are gluten-free and provide the perfect texture for absorbing the sauce.
How spicy is Pad Thai?
The spiciness of Pad Thai can vary based on personal preference. You can add chili flakes or fresh chilies to adjust the heat level to your liking.
Can I add more vegetables to Pad Thai?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value and flavor of your Pad Thai.
Is Pad Thai healthy?
Pad Thai can be a balanced meal when made with lean protein and plenty of vegetables. However, it can be high in calories and carbohydrates, so enjoy it in moderation.
How do I know when the noodles are done?
The noodles are done when they are soft but still slightly chewy. They should be pliable without being mushy, typically after soaking for about 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Pad Thai is a versatile and flavorful dish that can easily be made at home. With the right ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this classic Thai meal any night of the week. Whether for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Pad Thai Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup shrimp or chicken diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions sliced
- 1/4 cup peanuts crushed
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes until soft.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the shrimp or chicken, cooking until fully cooked.
- Push the protein to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs.
- Scramble the eggs until cooked, then mix with the protein.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the pan.
- Stir in tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar, mixing well.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and cilantro.