Description
Pad Thai is a classic noodle dish known for its balance of savory, tangy, slightly sweet flavors and satisfying textures.
This version focuses on clear technique, clean ingredients, and a reliable cooking method that works well in home kitchens.
Tender rice noodles are tossed with shrimp, soft eggs, aromatic garlic and shallots, and a glossy tamarind based sauce.
Crunchy peanuts and fresh lime add contrast and brightness to every bite.
Ingredients
Rice noodles, broken in half for easier cooking
Peanut oil or vegetable oil, divided
Medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
Large eggs, lightly whisked
Palm sugar, finely shaved or crushed
Thai fish sauce
Tamarind puree
Fresh lime juice plus extra lime wedges for serving
Cayenne pepper
Medium shallot, finely chopped
Garlic cloves, finely chopped
Scallions cut into short pieces
Fresh bean sprouts, rinsed and drained
Roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped
Fresh cilantro, chopped, optional
Instructions
Soak the rice noodles in boiling water until tender but still slightly chewy, then drain well and set aside
Heat a wok over high heat with a small amount of oil and cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque, then transfer to a bowl
Lower the heat slightly, add oil, and gently cook the whisked eggs until soft curds form, then add them to the shrimp
Whisk together palm sugar, fish sauce, tamarind puree, lime juice, cayenne, oil, and a small splash of water until smooth
Heat oil in the wok and cook the shallot and garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, then add the scallions and soften briefly
Pour in the sauce and let it simmer gently, then add noodles, shrimp, and eggs and toss constantly until well coated and heated through
Add bean sprouts and peanuts, toss gently to combine, and remove from heat
Serve immediately with lime wedges and optional cilantro on top
Notes
Pad Thai cooks very quickly, so all ingredients should be prepared before heating the wok.
The sauce should taste balanced before adding it to the pan, with a mix of savory, tangy, and lightly sweet notes.
Avoid overcooking the noodles during soaking to prevent a mushy texture.
Shrimp can be replaced with chicken or tofu using the same method.
Leftovers keep best for a short time and should be reheated gently with a splash of water.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Thai