Pad Thai is a beloved Thai dish that combines rice noodles with a mix of chicken, peanuts, scrambled eggs, and bean sprouts, all tossed in a savory sweet and spicy sauce. It’s a dish that’s enjoyed by many and is a staple in Thai cuisine.
If you’re a fan of Thai food and enjoy cooking at home, you might also like to try making Thai Quinoa Salad, Sheet Pan Thai Glazed Salmon with Vegetables, or Thai Peanut Skillet Chicken.
For those new to Pad Thai, it’s a flavorful stir-fry dish that includes ingredients like shrimp, chicken, tofu, and peanuts, which are sautéed together in a wok with a special Pad Thai sauce. While traditional recipes use tamarind paste, this version uses more readily available ingredients like rice vinegar, making it easier to prepare with items you likely have in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Homemade Pad Thai
- Rice Noodles: Flat noodles are ideal, but any width will do.
- Oil: Opt for a mild oil like olive, avocado, peanut, or coconut oil.
- Garlic: Enhances the flavor.
- Chicken: Use bite-sized pieces, or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Eggs: Large eggs work best.
- Bean Sprouts: A classic choice, but feel free to add shredded carrots.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and taste.
- Green Onions and Crushed Peanuts: For garnish and added flavor.
- Limes and Fresh Cilantro: Optional but recommended for extra freshness.
Pad Thai Sauce Ingredients
- Fish Sauce: Essential for authentic flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Use light or low sodium.
- Brown Sugar: For sweetness.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a distinct flavor.
- Sriracha: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Peanut Butter: Optional for a creamier sauce.
Preparation
- Cook Noodles: Follow package instructions, then drain and rinse.
- Make Sauce: Combine fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, sriracha, and peanut butter.
- Cook Chicken and Eggs: Sauté garlic and chicken in oil. Move to the side, add bell pepper, then eggs.
- Combine and Toss: Add noodles, sauce, bean sprouts, and peanuts. Toss well.
- Garnish: Top with green onions, peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Variations and Storage
Feel free to experiment with different proteins like beef or pork, and add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms. Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best results.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize to your taste preferences, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week.