Shrimp Pad Thai
Shrimp Pad Thai is a beloved Thai dish that combines rice noodles, succulent shrimp, and a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. You’ll start by soaking rice noodles and whisking together a sauce of tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. In a hot wok, you’ll stir-fry garlic and shallots, then add shrimp until pink. The key to authentic flavor lies in using a well-seasoned wok and not oversoak
The Perfect Shrimp Pad Thai
Shrimp Pad Thai is a beloved Thai street food dish that has captured hearts worldwide. This stir-fried noodle masterpiece balances sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors, creating a harmonious blend that dances on the palate. Tender rice noodles, succulent shrimp, and crunchy bean sprouts come together in a tangy tamarind-based sauce, topped with crushed peanuts and fresh herbs. Originating in Thailand during World War II, Pad Thai has become a cultural ambassador, showcasing the vibrant and complex flavors of Thai cuisine.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) rice noodles
- 1/2 lb (225g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Sauce:
- 3 tbsp tamarind paste
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 3 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and shallot, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Push ingredients to one side of the wok and add beaten eggs to the empty space.
- Scramble the eggs, then mix with the other ingredients.
- Add the drained noodles and sauce to the wok, tossing to combine and coat evenly.
- Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender and slightly chewy.
- Add bean sprouts and half of the peanuts, tossing to incorporate.
- Remove from heat and garnish with remaining peanuts, green onions, and cilantro.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Top Tips
- Use a well-seasoned wok for authentic “wok hei” flavor.
- Don’t oversoak the noodles; they should be pliable but still firm.
- Have all ingredients prepped before starting to cook, as the process moves quickly.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste preference; add more sugar for sweetness or chili for heat.
- Cook in small batches for best results if making a large quantity.
- Use a wide spatula or tongs for easy tossing and even cooking.
Variations
- Vegetarian Pad Thai: Replace shrimp with extra-firm tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
- Chicken Pad Thai: Substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast.
- Seafood Medley: Use a mix of shrimp, squid, and scallops for a luxurious seafood version.
- Spicy Pad Thai: Add fresh Thai chili peppers or increase the amount of chili flakes in the sauce.
- Nutty Pad Thai: Double the amount of crushed peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Low-Carb Pad Thai: Use spiralized zucchini or carrot “noodles” instead of rice noodles.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 58g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
Shrimp Pad Thai is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. The rice noodles offer quick energy, while the shrimp provides lean protein essential for muscle maintenance. Bean sprouts and peanuts contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, the dish can be high in sodium due to the fish sauce, so individuals watching their salt intake should be mindful of portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Pad Thai Without Fish Sauce?
You can make Pad Thai without fish sauce. Use vegetarian alternatives like soy sauce or tamari for umami. Adjust cooking techniques to balance flavor profiles. Experiment with tamarind paste or rice vinegar to achieve the desired tangy-savory taste.
How Long Does Leftover Shrimp Pad Thai Last in the Refrigerator?
You’ll maximize the shelf life of your leftover dish with proper storage. Keep it in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. When stored correctly, you can expect it to last 3-4 days before quality deteriorates.
What’s a Good Vegetarian Substitute for Shrimp in Pad Thai?
You’ll find tofu an excellent alternative for shrimp in pad thai. Its protein-rich texture absorbs flavors well. For a more innovative approach, try king oyster mushrooms as a substitute. They provide a meaty texture and umami taste.
Is Shrimp Pad Thai Gluten-Free?
You’ll find that traditional shrimp pad thai isn’t gluten-free. However, you can create gluten-free alternatives by using rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. Explore innovative shrimp pad thai variations that cater to dietary restrictions.
What Makes Kung Pao Shrimp a Good Alternative to Shrimp Pad Thai?
Kung Pao Shrimp is a fantastic alternative to Shrimp Pad Thai because it offers a bold, spicy flavor with a touch of sweetness and crunch from peanuts. The kung pao shrimp recipe allows for customization of spice levels and includes simple ingredients, making it a convenient and flavorful dish for seafood lovers.
Before You Go
You’ve now mastered the art of creating authentic shrimp pad thai. By carefully balancing sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors, you’ve achieved the dish’s signature taste profile. Your precise cooking techniques have secured perfectly tender shrimp and noodles with ideal texture. Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference and garnish appropriately. With practice, you’ll consistently produce restaurant-quality pad thai in your own kitchen, impressing guests with your culinary expertise.
