Pad Thai is a classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors. This recipe is simple, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner at home.
🥢 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
Noodles & Protein
8 oz (225 g) rice noodles
1/2 lb (225 g) shrimp, chicken, or tofu
2 eggs
Vegetables
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bean sprouts
2 green onions, chopped
1 small carrot, julienned (optional)
1/4 cup chopped peanuts for garnish
Pad Thai Sauce
3 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
1 tbsp tamarind paste (or 1 tbsp lime juice + 1 tsp sugar)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Other
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Lime wedges for serving
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the noodles
Soak rice noodles in warm water for 20–30 minutes until soft but slightly firm.
Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the sauce
In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the protein
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
Cook shrimp, chicken, or tofu until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4️⃣ Stir-fry vegetables
Add remaining oil. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add carrots (if using) and green onions, stir-fry for 1–2 minutes.
5️⃣ Add eggs
Push vegetables to the side and scramble the eggs in the pan. Mix with vegetables once cooked.
6️⃣ Combine noodles and sauce
Add soaked noodles and protein back into the pan.
Pour the sauce over everything. Toss until evenly coated and heated through (2–3 minutes).
7️⃣ Finish and serve
Add bean sprouts and give a quick toss.
Serve with chopped peanuts, lime wedges, and extra chili if desired.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Pad Thai
Don’t over-soak noodles—they’ll cook further in the pan.
Use high heat for authentic stir-fry flavor.
Adjust the sauce: more lime for tangy, more sugar for sweetness.
Add fresh herbs like cilantro for garnish.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated quickly.
Pad Thai is quick, flavorful, and customizable. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Thailand at home!