Authentic Pad Thai – The Ultimate Thai Noodle Dish

Pad Thai is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes in Thai cuisine. This classic stir-fried noodle dish is packed with bold flavors, a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami. Made with rice noodles, fresh vegetables, tender protein, and a tangy tamarind-based sauce, Pad Thai is a street food favorite that you can now recreate at home with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Pad Thai Recipe

1. Authentic Taste – Experience the real flavors of Thailand.
2. Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
3. Customizable – Make it vegetarian, add extra spice, or choose your favorite protein.
4. Perfectly Balanced Sauce – A harmonious blend of tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar.
5. Restaurant-Quality at Home – Skip takeout and enjoy a fresh, homemade version.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Pad Thai

• Rice Noodles – Traditional Thai noodles that absorb all the flavors.
• Tamarind Paste – The key ingredient for tangy depth.
• Fish Sauce – Adds the signature umami taste.
• Palm Sugar or Brown Sugar – Balances the tartness of tamarind.
• Lime Juice – Brings brightness and freshness.
• Garlic & Shallots – Essential aromatics for deep flavor.
• Eggs – Scrambled into the dish for richness.
• Firm Tofu or Chicken/Shrimp – Choose your protein.
• Bean Sprouts & Green Onions – Freshness and crunch.
• Crushed Peanuts – A signature topping for extra texture.
• Chili Flakes – For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:

• 3 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 ½ tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Set aside for later use.

2. Cook the Noodles

Soak 8 ounces of rice noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes, until soft but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics & Protein

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and shallots, stir-frying until fragrant. Add tofu, shrimp, or chicken and cook until golden.

4. Add the Eggs & Noodles

Push the ingredients to one side and crack in 2 eggs. Scramble lightly, then toss everything together with the noodles.

5. Pour in the Sauce

Add the prepared tamarind sauce and stir well to coat the noodles evenly.

6. Garnish & Serve

Toss in bean sprouts, green onions, and crushed peanuts. Serve hot with lime wedges and chili flakes on the side.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Vegetarian Pad Thai – Swap fish sauce for soy sauce and use tofu.
• Spicy Pad Thai – Add extra chili flakes or Sriracha.
• Extra Crunchy – Top with fried shallots.
• Nut-Free Option – Replace peanuts with toasted sesame seeds.

Tips for the Best Pad Thai

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Quality ingredients make all the difference.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles – They should be tender but still chewy.
• Balance the Flavors – Adjust sweetness, tanginess, and saltiness to your taste.
• Cook on High Heat – Ensures a quick and even stir-fry.

Final Thoughts

Pad Thai is the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it one of the most satisfying and versatile noodle dishes you can make at home. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers authentic Thai taste in just minutes.

Try this delicious Pad Thai recipe today and explore more flavorful dishes at ExploreRecipes.org!