What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade Pad Thai recipe brings the authentic flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with ease and fun. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a delicious meal that’s ready in no time.
You’ll love how customizable it is—swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it just the way you like. The tangy, sweet, and savory sauce strikes the perfect balance, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends or family without spending hours in the kitchen!
Recipe
Intro:
Pad Thai is a classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish that balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors. This recipe uses rice noodles, protein of choice, and a tangy tamarind-based sauce for an authentic taste.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) rice noodles (flat, medium-width)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup firm tofu, cubed (or shrimp/chicken)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Sauce:
- 3 tbsp tamarind paste
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Soak rice noodles in warm water for 20–30 minutes until pliable but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes to make the sauce.
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and tofu (or protein), stir-frying until lightly browned.
- Push ingredients to one side, pour beaten eggs into the empty space, and scramble until set.
- Add drained noodles and sauce, tossing well to coat. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions, tossing briefly.
- Serve hot, garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Notes:
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness by tweaking sugar or fish sauce.
- For extra tang, add more tamarind paste.
Equipment:
- Wok or large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or spatula
Time:
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Thai
Serving: 2–3 people
Nutrition
This homemade Pad Thai recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my Pad Thai with fresh sides like cucumber salad or spring rolls to add a cool, crunchy contrast. A chilled glass of Thai iced tea or a light lager complements the dish’s bold flavors perfectly. It’s a combo that always feels like a mini celebration at my table!
Side Dishes
Complementing your homemade Pad Thai with the perfect side dishes can turn a simple meal into a feast. I love serving fresh spring rolls—they’re light, crunchy, and packed with herbs, balancing the rich flavors of the noodles. A simple cucumber salad with a tangy lime dressing adds a revitalizing bite. If I’m craving something heartier, I’ll whip up crispy fried tofu or satay skewers with peanut sauce. Don’t forget a plate of steamed veggies or stir-fried greens for extra texture. These sides keep the meal exciting without overpowering the star of the show—your delicious Pad Thai!
Beverage Pairings
Since Pad Thai’s bold flavors can be both sweet and tangy, finding the right drink to match makes every bite even better. I love pairing it with a crisp, cold lager—the effervescence cuts through the richness, while the mild bitterness balances the sweetness. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try iced jasmine tea; its floral notes complement the dish’s complexity. For a revitalizing twist, a lime-infused sparkling water brightens every mouthful. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a slightly sweet Riesling highlights the tamarind’s tang. Whatever you choose, keep it light and invigorating to let the Pad Thai shine. Cheers to the perfect meal!
