Pad Thai is undoubtedly one of the most famous and beloved Thai dishes around the world. With its tantalizing blend of flavours, textures, and aromas, Pad Thai has become a go-to choice for those seeking a taste of Thai cuisine. This iconic stir-fried noodle dish combines rice noodles, succulent shrimp or chicken, crunchy bean sprouts, eggs, and a medley of ingredients that create a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and savoury flavours. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to prepare an authentic Pad Thai at home, so you can savour the magic of this classic Thai delicacy.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced tofu (optional)
- 1/2 cup shrimp or chicken, peeled and deveined (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- Lime wedges for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Method:
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tofu (if using) and stir-fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the wok and set aside.
- In the same wok, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp or chicken (if using) and cook until they are cooked through. Push the ingredients to one side of the wok.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the wok and scramble them until they are partially cooked. Then, mix the eggs with the shrimp or chicken.
- Add the cooked rice noodles to the wok, followed by the tamarind paste, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and palm sugar (or brown sugar). Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the bean sprouts and green onions to the wok. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the bean sprouts are slightly wilted.
- Sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the noodles and give it a final toss.
- Serve the Pad Thai hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Optionally, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.
Tips:
- Customize your Pad Thai by adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or bok choy.
- Adjust the sweetness, sourness, and saltiness of the dish by adjusting the tamarind paste, sugar, and fish sauce according to your taste.
Finally:
Pad Thai is a classic Thai dish that captivates the senses with its delicate balance of flavours and textures. By following this authentic Pad Thai recipe, you can recreate the magic of this beloved Thai noodle dish in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavours, Pad Thai is a must-try recipe that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Thailand with every bite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the wok, and prepare to indulge in the deliciousness of Pad Thai, a true culinary masterpiece.
