Pad Thai, Thailand's national dish, is a symphony of sweet, sour, salty, and savory flavors that dance on the palate. This iconic noodle stir-fry is more than just a meal; it's a cultural experience, a testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. The vibrant colors of the ingredients—bright orange carrots, vibrant green scallions, and the deep red of chili peppers—are as enticing as the aroma of sizzling garlic and peanuts. Its satisfying combination of rice noodles, protein (typically shrimp, chicken, or tofu), and a tangy tamarind-based sauce is endlessly adaptable, allowing for creative variations and personal preferences.
But what truly elevates Pad Thai is the careful balance of its components and the skilled hand of the cook. This authentic recipe will guide you through the process of creating a truly unforgettable Pad Thai experience, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Thailand? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide.
Tools Needed
- Wok
- Travel burner or camping stove
- Microwave
Ingredients
- Thai Sriracha
- Tamarind Concentrate
- Vietnamese Fish Sauce
- Thai Palm Sugar Puck
- Fresh Limes
- Pad Thai Noodles: 8 ounces
- Tofu (extra firm or fermented): 4 ounces
- Shrimp (deveined)
- Dry Shrimp (preserved)
- Garlic
- Shallots
- Preserved Radish
- Green Onions
- Eggs
- Crushed Peanuts
- Bean Sprouts: 4 ounces
- Fresh Smoked Pepper: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Combine Thai Sriracha, tamarind concentrate, Vietnamese fish sauce, and melted Thai palm sugar. Let it sit.
- Soak 8 ounces of Pad Thai noodles in cold water for 2 hours in the fridge.
- Cut tofu into bite-sized pieces. Fry tofu until golden brown. Prepare shrimp, fry until cooked.
- Heat wok, add garlic, shallots, preserved radish, dry shrimp, and green onions. Sauté until fragrant.
Step 2. Wok-Fry and Combine
- Add eggs to the wok and scramble until cooked, then remove to the side.
- Add the soaked noodles to the wok, along with the cooked eggs, tofu, shrimp, and Pad Thai sauce. Toss to combine.
Step 3. Finish and Garnish
- Add bean sprouts, cook for 45-60 seconds. Stir in lime juice, smoked pepper, and garnish.
Read more: Vegan Pad Thai: Easy Restaurant-Quality Recipe at Home
Tips
- Source ingredients from Thailand for authentic flavor.
- Use a wok over high heat for best results.
- Don't overcook the noodles; aim for a slightly chewy texture.
- Add bean sprouts at the very end to keep them crunchy.
- Garnish with crushed peanuts, green onions, lime wedges, and ground Thai chili (optional).
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the shrimp with other protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or even beef work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have a wok?
A large, deep skillet will work just fine. Just be sure to use medium-high heat for good browning and stir-frying.
So there you have it—your very own plate of authentic, wok-sizzling Shrimp Pad Thai. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the satisfying crunch of peanuts as you savor this culinary masterpiece. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound Pad Thai expertise!