The Best Shrimp Pad Tha

Shrimp Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish that consists of stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, eggs, tofu, and bean sprouts, all tossed in a flavorful sauce typically made from tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The dish is often garnished with crushed peanuts, fresh lime wedges, and sometimes fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. It’s known for its balanced combination of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Here’s a basic recipe for Shrimp Pad Thai:

Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) rice noodles
• 2 tbsp tamarind paste
• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or palm sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 8 oz (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes (optional)
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Noodles:
   • Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 20-30 minutes until they are soft but still firm. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Adjust the balance of flavors to taste.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Eggs:
   • In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Push the eggs to one side of the pan.
5. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the soaked and drained noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss to coat. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   • Add the cooked shrimp, bean sprouts, tofu (if using), and half of the green onions. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well mixed and heated through.
7. Serve:
   • Divide the Pad Thai among serving plates. Garnish with the remaining green onions, crushed peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges. Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili for extra heat if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Pad Thai!