Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp Pad Thai is a classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish made with tender rice noodles, succulent shrimp, scrambled eggs, tofu, and a flavorful sauce that balances sweet, sour, and savory notes. Finished with crunchy peanuts, fresh bean sprouts, and lime wedges, it’s a dish that brings vibrant Thai street food flavors right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals

• Authentic taste using traditional ingredients

• Customizable for different dietary preferences

• Balanced flavors with a satisfying mix of textures

• Restaurant-quality results at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rice noodles

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Firm tofu

• Eggs

• Garlic

• Bean sprouts

• Green onions

• Crushed peanuts

• Lime wedges

• Tamarind paste

• Fish sauce

• Brown sugar

• Soy sauce

• Sriracha or chili paste

• Vegetable oil

Directions

1. Soak the noodles: Place rice noodles in warm water for 20–30 minutes or until pliable. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Sriracha. Stir until well combined.

3. Cook the tofu and shrimp: In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook tofu cubes until golden. Remove, then cook shrimp until pink and just cooked through. Set both aside.

4. Scramble the eggs: Add more oil if needed. Crack in the eggs and stir to scramble until just set.

5. Combine ingredients: Add the soaked noodles and sauce to the pan. Toss everything together until noodles are evenly coated and heated through.

6. Add veggies and tofu/shrimp: Mix in bean sprouts, chopped green onions, tofu, and shrimp. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes more.

7. Garnish and serve: Plate the Pad Thai and top with crushed peanuts and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Use chicken, beef, or extra tofu instead of shrimp.

• Vegetarian: Omit shrimp and fish sauce; use soy sauce or tamari.

• Extra vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.

• Low spice: Reduce or omit the chili sauce.

• Low-carb: Try with spiralized vegetables or shirataki noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may dry the noodles.

FAQs

What kind of noodles are used in Pad Thai?

Pad Thai is traditionally made with flat rice noodles, which are soft and chewy when stir-fried.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the sauce and prepped ingredients can be made ahead to save time.

What can I use instead of tamarind paste?

A mix of lime juice and a bit of brown sugar can substitute in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Is Pad Thai supposed to be spicy?

It has mild heat from chili sauce, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I make Pad Thai without fish sauce?

Yes, substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian version.

What kind of tofu works best?

Firm or extra-firm tofu holds up best during stir-frying and maintains its texture.

How do I prevent noodles from sticking?

Rinse soaked noodles with cold water and toss lightly in oil before cooking.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Feel free to include vegetables like carrots, cabbage, or bell peppers.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensuring your fish sauce is gluten-free, the dish can be made gluten-free.

Can I freeze Shrimp Pad Thai?

Freezing is not recommended as the noodles can become mushy upon reheating.

Conclusion

Shrimp Pad Thai is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home with a few essential ingredients. Whether you’re craving takeout-style noodles or looking to impress guests with an authentic Thai meal, this recipe delivers a satisfying experience every time. With its versatility, quick prep, and delicious balance of flavors, it’s a must-have in your cooking rotation.