Pad Thai is a popular Thai stir-fried noodle dish. There are many variations depending on personal preference and regional differences. Here’s a basic recipe to prepare Pad Thai:
Ingredients:
Rice noodles – 200g (about 8 oz)
Chicken breast or tofu – 200g (sliced into small pieces)
Eggs – 2
Fresh bean sprouts – 1 cup
Spring onions (green onions) – 3, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Dried shrimp – 1 tablespoon (optional)
Chopped roasted peanuts – 2 tablespoons
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Red chili flakes (optional)
Oil for frying
For the sauce:
Tamarind paste – 3 tablespoons
Fish sauce – 1½ tablespoons
Brown sugar – 1½ tablespoons
Water – 2 tablespoons
Chili sauce (like Sriracha) – 1 tablespoon (adjust according to taste)
Instructions:
Preparation of Noodles: Soak rice noodles in warm water for 20-30 minutes until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce: In a bowl, combine tamarind paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, water, and chili sauce. Mix well until the sugar dissolves and set aside.
Cooking the Dish:
Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of oil.
Add the minced garlic and fry until golden brown.
If you are using chicken, add it now and stir-fry until it’s nearly cooked. If you are using tofu, add it and fry until it’s slightly golden.
Push the chicken/tofu to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs and cook until they are just set.
Add the drained rice noodles to the pan.
Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the noodles are soft and coated in the sauce. If the noodles are too dry, you can add a little water.
Add the bean sprouts and chopped spring onions. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes.
If using dried shrimp, add them now.
Serving:
Transfer your Pad Thai to a serving plate.
Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, red chili flakes (if you like it spicy), and a lime wedge.
Squeeze the lime over the Pad Thai before eating.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients and the proportions based on personal preference. Some people also add other proteins like shrimp or include other vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
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