Classic Pad Thai

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Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish that is a staple of Thai cuisine and beloved around the world for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. This recipe offers a traditional take on the classic dish, featuring rice noodles, a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, and a flavorful sauce. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to Thai cooking, this Pad Thai recipe will bring the taste of Thailand right into your kitchen.Prep Time: 20 minutesCook Time: 10 minutesTotal Time: 30 minutesServings: 4

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces flat rice noodles
  • 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or peanut
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup firm tofu cut into small cubes
  • 2 eggs lightly beaten
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/2 cup green onions chopped
  • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts crushed
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
  • For the Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili sauce or Sriracha adjust to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft but still firm. Drain and set aside.
  • Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, tamarind paste, lime juice, and chili sauce. Set aside.
  • Cook the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
  • Cook the Eggs: In the same skillet, add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside with the tofu.
  • Stir-Fry the Noodles: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the soaked noodles and the prepared sauce. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the sauce.
  • Combine Ingredients: Return the tofu and eggs to the skillet. Add the bean sprouts and green onions, tossing everything together for another minute.
  • Serve: Transfer the Pad Thai to serving plates. Garnish with crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Notes

For added protein, you can include shrimp or chicken with or instead of the tofu.
Adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili sauce.
If tamarind paste is unavailable, a good substitute can be made by mixing equal parts lime juice and brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your Pad Thai hot as a main dish. It pairs wonderfully with Thai iced tea or a crisp, cold beer to balance the dish’s rich flavors.
Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make Pad Thai a beloved dish worldwide. With this recipe, you can create a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting to the palate

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