Authentic Pad Thai Recipe for Delicious Thai Flavor
Pad Thai Recipe
Craving the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine? Learn how to make authentic Pad Thai at home with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
- 200g (7 oz) chicken breast, thinly sliced (optional)
- 100g (3.5 oz) firm tofu, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Red chili flakes or fresh chili, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 30 minutes, or until they are soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Protein (Optional):
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast (if using) and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Tofu and Aromatics:
- In the same skillet or wok, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tofu and minced garlic, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the tofu is lightly browned and crispy.
4. Add the Eggs and Noodles:
- Push the tofu and garlic to one side of the skillet, then pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until they are cooked through, then mix them with the tofu.
- Add the soaked rice noodles to the skillet, along with the cooked chicken (if using), and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and palm sugar (or brown sugar) until the sugar is dissolved. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss to coat evenly.
6. Add the Vegetables and Garnishes:
- Add the bean sprouts and chopped green onions to the skillet, and toss everything together for another 1-2 minutes, or until the bean sprouts are slightly softened.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro leaves, and red chili flakes or fresh chili (if using).
7. Serve:
- Divide the Pad Thai among serving plates and serve hot, accompanied by additional lime wedges and chili flakes for those who enjoy extra heat.
Occasions:
- Weeknight Dinners: Pad Thai is perfect for quick and flavorful weeknight dinners when you’re craving the exotic taste of Thai cuisine. Its simple preparation and delicious flavors make it a satisfying meal for busy weekdays.
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests at dinner parties or gatherings with homemade Pad Thai. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors will delight your friends and family, making it a memorable dish for special occasions.
- Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a potluck, game night, or casual dinner with friends, Pad Thai is sure to impress. Set up a DIY Pad Thai station with various toppings and let everyone customize their noodles for a fun and interactive dining experience.