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Shrimp Pad Thai

Shrimp Pad Thai - Hearty Food Ideas

Shrimp Pad Thai reminds me of my trip to Thailand a few years ago. The bustling streets filled with vendors flipping sizzling woks, the vibrant colors of fresh produce, and the intoxicating aromas of spices wafting through the air—it was culinary magic. But there's something special about making this dish at home.
Prep Time 9 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pad Thai Stir-Fry:
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 ounces medium or large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 4 ounces dry brown rice noodles
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated carrots
  • 2 large green onions finely sliced
  • 1/2 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • Lime wedges for serving
For the Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon honey plus 1–2 teaspoons more to taste
  • 1–3 teaspoons ground chili sauce or chili garlic sauce

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles
  1. Start by cooking your brown rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside. The texture of these noodles will set the stage for your dish.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive or canola oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This is where your kitchen will start to smell incredible.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
  1. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re pink and opaque. It’s so satisfying to see the transformation!
Step 4: Add Eggs
  1. Push the shrimp to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble them gently until just cooked, then mix them with the shrimp.
Step 5: Mix in Noodles and Sauce
  1. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. In a separate bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, honey, and chili sauce. Pour this sauce over the noodles and toss everything together.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
  1. Stir in the grated carrots, green onions, and bean sprouts. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 7: Finish with Garnishes
  1. Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and add chopped peanuts and cilantro. Give it one last toss.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Serve the Shrimp Pad Thai with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the dish just before eating.

Notes

  • Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or thawed is fine, but make sure to pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
  • Customize Your Heat: Adjust the chili sauce to your preferred spice level.
  • Don’t Skip the Toppings: Peanuts and cilantro are essential for flavor and texture.
  • Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce mix before adding it to the noodles.
  • Prep Ahead: Cut your veggies in advance for a quick cooking experience.