Pad Thai is a popular and flavorful Thai stir-fried noodle dish that has gained international acclaim for its delicious combination of sweet, sour, salty, and savory flavors. This iconic street food dish is known for its versatility, allowing for various protein choices such as shrimp, chicken, tofu, or a combination of these. The dish typically features rice noodles, bean sprouts, peanuts, lime, and a tamarind-based sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Pad Thai Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup protein of choice (shrimp, chicken, tofu, etc.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed peanuts
- Lime wedges for serving
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and chili powder to make the sauce.
- Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add the protein of choice and cook until fully cooked. Push the protein to one side of the wok.
- Add minced garlic to the empty side of the wok and stir-fry briefly until fragrant.
- Push the garlic to the side with the protein, pour the beaten eggs into the wok, and scramble until cooked.
- Add the cooked noodles to the wok, followed by the prepared sauce. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions, continuing to toss until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Serve Pad Thai hot, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy this authentic and mouthwatering Pad Thai, perfect for a quick and delicious meal!