Introduction
Pad Thai is a popular traditional Thai noodle dish that has gained international acclaim for its savory flavors and satisfying textures. It combines rice noodles with an array of fresh ingredients, including shrimp (optional), tofu, vegetables like bean sprouts and radishes, and classic Pad Thai elements such as tamarind water and fish sauce. This recipe brings the vibrant taste of Thailand right into your kitchen, promising a delightful culinary experience with each bite.
Tips for this Recipe
To achieve the authentic taste of Pad Thai, consider using room temperature ingredients as they blend more seamlessly in the dish’s complex flavor profile. Opting to use fresh bean sprouts and palm sugar will enhance your recipe’s depth while maintaining a genuine representation of this classic dish.
Why you will love this recipe
The combination of tender noodles, crisp vegetables, and rich sauce in Pad Thai is not just delicious; it also offers an incredible balance of flavors that caters to a variety of palates. Whether you are exploring new cuisines or simply craving something unique and satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its taste, versatility, and the joy it brings in cooking together with loved ones.
Ingredients
5 ounces pad thai rice noodles
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large egg, room temperature
6 medium shrimp, peeled, deveined (optional)
2 tablespoons 1×1/2×1/8″ slices pressed tofu (bean curd)
1 tablespoon sweet preserved shredded radish, rinsed, chopped into 1″ pieces
1 cup bean sprouts
5 tablespoons tamarind water, or 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon tamarind paste mixed with 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon water
1 1/2 tablespoons (or more) Thai fish sauce (nam pla)
1 1/2 tablespoons simple syrup, preferably made with palm sugar
4 garlic chives, 2 cut into 1″ pieces
1/2 teaspoon ground dried Thai chiles, divided
2 tablespoons crushed roasted, unsalted peanuts, divided
2 lime wedges
Adviced equipments
– Chef’s Elegant Non-Stick Fry Pans (12 Inch)
– Chef’s Elegant Round Wok (10 Inch)
– OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Stainless Steel Precision Cooking Spatula
– Victorinox Fibrox Pro Cooking & Baking Knife Block Set (5 Pieces)
– Wüsthof 14″ Professional Cook’s Cutting Board
– OXO Stainless Steel Fork & Tongs Set
– OXO Meat and Poultry Measuring Cup & Tablespoon Set (32 Ct)
– OXO Professional Mixing Bowl Set (14″x7)
– Philips Airfryer Plus Food For Life 5-Cup Commercial Grade Food Dehydrator (optional)
– OXO Classic 4-Piece Stainless Steel Strainer Set (Fine Mesh)
History of the recipe
Pad Thai, also known as “Thai Pancake” or “Stirred Fried Noodle,” has its roots in Thailand and is believed to have been developed during the 1930s by the government to promote rice noodles over Chinese-style wheat flour. The dish incorporates key ingredients such as tamarind, which was traditionally used for meat preservation, alongside shrimp (though originally not included), eggs, and bean curd, reflecting a unique blend of local flavors with influences from neighboring countries like China and Malaysia.
Fun facts about this recipe
Beyond its rich history, Pad Thai has become an iconic representation of Thailand’s national cuisine due to the government-led campaign aimed at preserving rice noodles as a staple. The dish’s popularity soared internationally in the 1960s and continues to grow, with variations now found worldwide. Interestingly, Pad Thai is also celebrated for its flexibility; it can be made vegan or pescatarian by substituting ingredients as needed while still maintaining its essence.
