Delicious Pad Thai dish with fresh ingredients and vibrant colors

Pad Thai

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Pad Thai is a popular Thai stir-fried noodle dish that offers a delicious mix of flavors and textures. It combines the savory taste of chicken and tofu with the crunch of peanuts and fresh vegetables. This recipe is easy to make at home and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Making your own Pad Thai gives you the freedom to adjust the ingredients to your liking, ensuring every bite is just how you want it.

how to make Pad Thai

Ingredients :

  • 200g dried rice stick noodles
  • 2 tbsp peanut oil
  • 200g firm tofu, drained and cut into 1cm pieces
  • 400g chicken breast fillets, trimmed and thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 eggs, lightly whisked
  • 1/3 cup pad Thai paste
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
  • 1 bunch chives, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups (85g) bean sprouts
  • 1 bunch coriander, leaves picked
  • Lemon wedges, to serve

Directions :

  1. Place the noodles in a heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Set aside for 15 minutes, then drain well.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook, tossing, until golden. Drain on paper towel.
  3. Heat the remaining oil in the wok over high heat. Add the chicken and garlic, and stir-fry until cooked. Push the chicken to the side of the wok. Add the eggs and cook, without stirring, for 1 minute. Toss through the noodles with the pad Thai paste and lime juice.
  4. Remove the wok from the heat and toss in the peanuts, chives, bean sprouts, and coriander. Serve with lemon wedges.

how to serve Pad Thai

To serve Pad Thai, place a generous portion on each plate. Garnish with extra chopped peanuts, chives, or coriander if desired. Add lemon wedges on the side, so everyone can squeeze fresh lime juice over their noodles for added flavor. This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking.

how to store Pad Thai

If you have leftovers, let the Pad Thai cool down before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. For best taste, reheat it in a pan on the stovetop to keep the noodles from becoming mushy.

tips to make Pad Thai

  • Choose the right noodles: Make sure you use dried rice stick noodles for the best texture.
  • Balance flavors: Adjust the amount of lime juice and pad Thai paste to suit your taste.
  • Add veggies: Feel free to include more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.

variation

You can customize Pad Thai by adding shrimp or substituting chicken with beef or vegetables for a vegetarian option. For a spicier version, add chili flakes or sriracha sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make Pad Thai in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Cook it fresh when you are ready to serve.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pad Thai paste and check the noodles are gluten-free, this dish can be gluten-free.

3. Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.