When the evening cools down and the hum of the day fades, there’s something so satisfying about a plate of Classic Pad Thai waiting on the table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a little celebration of flavors that feels both familiar and exciting.
One night, after a long day filled with the usual rush, I decided to make this dish. The kitchen quickly filled with the aroma of garlic sizzling in oil and the subtle sweetness of tamarind sauce mingling with a hint of lime. As the noodles softened and the shrimp turned a delicate pink, I found myself drawn into the rhythm of stirring and tossing, losing track of time. The crunch of roasted peanuts and the fresh pop of cilantro on top made the first bite unforgettable—bright, tangy, and a little spicy. That moment, fork in hand, was pure comfort.
- Balanced flavors that combine sweet, sour, and savory in every bite
- A quick and straightforward dish that feels special without fuss
- Perfect mix of textures—from tender noodles to crunchy peanuts
- Flexible enough to enjoy as a casual dinner or impress guests
- Fresh ingredients bring vibrant color and taste to your plate
It’s totally normal to wonder if you’ll get the sauce just right or if the noodles will have the perfect chew. This recipe guides you through that, so you can focus more on enjoying the process instead of worrying.
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Classic Pad Thai
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A traditional Thai stir-fried noodle dish with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, featuring rice noodles, shrimp, tofu, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
Ingredients
8 ounces dried flat rice noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 ounces firm tofu, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 large eggs
3 green onions, sliced
1/2 cup bean sprouts
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
2 tablespoons tamarind paste
3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Lime wedges, for serving
Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Place the dried rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with warm water. Soak for 20 minutes or until noodles are pliable but still firm. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, palm sugar, lime juice, and crushed red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves. Set the sauce aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove tofu from the wok and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the wok and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Push the shrimp to one side of the wok.
Crack the eggs into the empty side of the wok and scramble them until just set.
Add the drained noodles to the wok along with the prepared sauce. Toss everything together gently to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles absorb the sauce and are heated through.
Return the cooked tofu to the wok and add the sliced green onions and bean sprouts. Toss to combine and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Remove the wok from heat. Serve the Pad Thai garnished with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro leaves, and lime wedges on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the shrimp and add extra tofu or your favorite vegetables. The sauce remains delicious and balanced.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to bring back the noodles’ softness.
Is the tamarind paste hard to find?
You can usually find it in Asian grocery stores or online. It’s a key ingredient that gives the dish its unique tang, but if you need a substitute, a mix of lime juice and a bit of brown sugar can work in a pinch.
Ready to bring this flavorful Classic Pad Thai to your table? Scroll down, save the recipe, and get cooking—it’s a dinner that’s worth every moment.