Thai

Classic Pad Thai

Authentic Thai stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, and peanuts in a balanced tamarind-fish sauce. Tangy, sweet, and savory perfection.

25 minmedium4 servings
Classic Pad Thai
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
25 min

Ingredients

Equipment

  • Wok or 12-inch skillet
    Alternative: Non-stick skillet for less experienced cooks
  • Tongs
    Alternative: Two spatulas
  • Large bowl for soaking
    Alternative: Colander under running water

★ = Essential

Instructions

  1. Soak Flat rice noodles (1/4-inch wide) in room temperature water for 10 minutes until pliable but firm. Drain and set aside. Prepare sauce: In a small bowl, whisk Tamarind paste, Fish sauce, Palm sugar (or brown sugar), and 2 tbsp water until sugar dissolves.

    Noodle soak and sauce prep
    ✓ Checkpoint: Noodles bend without breaking; sauce is smooth and glossy
  2. Heat 1 tbsp Neutral vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry Firm tofu (drained and cubed) until golden on all sides, about 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

    Tofu fry
    ✓ Checkpoint: Tofu cubes are crisp and golden-brown
    💡 Chef's Tip: High heat prevents sticking; don't overcrowd
  3. Add another tbsp Neutral vegetable oil to wok. Add Garlic cloves (minced) and Shallots (minced). Stir-fry until fragrant, 30 seconds. Push to side, crack Large eggs into center, scramble until just set, then mix with aromatics.

    Aromatics and eggs
    ✓ Checkpoint: Garlic golden, eggs softly scrambled (no dry edges)
    💡 Chef's Tip: Stir constantly to avoid burning garlic
  4. Add Medium shrimp (peeled and deveined) and stir-fry until pink and opaque, 1-2 minutes. Return Firm tofu (drained and cubed) to wok. Add drained Flat rice noodles (1/4-inch wide) and pour in sauce. Toss everything to coat, using tongs. Cook until noodles soften and sauce thickens, 2-3 minutes. If too dry, add splash of water.

    Main stir-fry
    ✓ Checkpoint: Noodles glossy and sauce clings; shrimp curled
    💡 Chef's Tip: High heat and constant motion for wok hei flavor
  5. Turn off heat. Fold in half of Fresh mung bean sprouts and half of Scallions (chopped). Divide among plates. Garnish with remaining Fresh mung bean sprouts, Scallions (chopped), Roasted peanuts (chopped), and wedges of Lime (for serving). Serve immediately.

    Garnish and plate
    ✓ Checkpoint: Fresh sprouts crisp, lime wedges bright green
    💡 Chef's Tip: Lime squeeze at table brightens flavors

Nutrition

(per serving)

450
Calories
25g
Protein
60g
Carbs
15g
Fat
4g
Fiber

Storage

Refrigerator: 2 days

Freezer: 1 months

Store in airtight container. Noodles may soften.

Reheating: Stir-fry in hot wok with splash of water or broth. Avoid microwave to prevent mushiness.

Variations

  • Vegan Pad Thai: Omit shrimp and eggs; double tofu; replace fish sauce with soy sauce + 1 tsp miso
  • Chicken Pad Thai: Replace shrimp with 8 oz thinly sliced chicken breast; stir-fry first until cooked
  • Spicy Pad Thai: Add 1 tsp chili flakes or fresh Thai chilies with garlic; serve with extra chili oil
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