Pad Thai
Ingredients
- 8 ounces flat rice noodles
- 3 Tablespoons oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 8 ounces uncooked shrimp
chicken, or extra-firm tofu
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 green onions
- 1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 2 limes
- 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro
- 3 Tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 Tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 5 Tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon Sriracha hot sauce
- 2 Tablespoons creamy peanut butter*
Directions
- 1
Cook noodles according to package instructions, just until tender.Rinse under cold water.
- 2
Make sauce by combining sauce ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.
- 3
Stir Fry:: Heat 1½ tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, chicken or tofu, garlic and bell pepper. The shrimp will cook quickly, about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until pink. If using chicken, cook until just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes, flipping only once.
- 4
Push everything to the side of the pan. Add a little more oil and add the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs, breaking them into small pieces with a spatula as they cook.
- 5
Add noodles, sauce, bean sprouts and peanuts to the pan (reserving some peanuts for topping at the end). Toss everything to combine.
- 6
Garnish the top with green onions, extra peanuts, cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately!
- 7
Store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy within 2-3 days.
Pad Thai
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About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that comes together in a flash? This easy Pad Thai recipe delivers authentic Thai-inspired tastes right to your kitchen, without the long wait or takeout price tag. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce that’s truly unforgettable.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it brings together a delightful medley of textures and flavors in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. The secret lies in a balanced homemade sauce that coats every strand of the flat rice noodles, ensuring each bite is savory, sweet, and tangy. You get the best of all worlds with a customizable protein base of chicken, shrimp, or extra-firm tofu, alongside scrambled eggs and crunchy peanuts.
What to Expect Prepare your taste buds for a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory, with a subtle kick from Sriracha. You’ll experience the satisfying chewiness of rice noodles, the delightful crunch of fresh bean sprouts, red bell pepper, and dry roasted peanuts. The combination of protein—whether it’s tender chicken, juicy shrimp, or firm tofu—adds substance, while fresh lime and cilantro brighten the entire dish. This isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey that’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home.
Customization & Variations Feel free to make this Pad Thai your own! The recipe is versatile; you can easily swap between shrimp, chicken, or extra-firm tofu based on your preference or what you have on hand. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and add extra tofu or more fresh vegetables like carrots or snow peas. Adjust the Sriracha hot sauce to control the spice level, from a mild hint to a fiery kick. If you prefer, a different type of peanut butter can be used, but creamy is recommended for the best sauce texture.
Serving & Context This delicious Pad Thai is a complete meal on its own, perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a quick family supper. Serve it immediately, garnished generously with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance those bright, tangy notes.