Ingredients
Equipment
- Wok or 12-inch skilletAlternative: Non-stick skillet for less experienced cooks
- TongsAlternative: Two spatulas
- Large bowl for soakingAlternative: Colander under running water
★ = Essential
Instructions
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 glossyHeat 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 overcrowdAdd 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 garlicAdd 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 flavorTurn 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)
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
