If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, you might have come across a popular dish called Pad Thai, which is essentially a stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles, vegetables, protein, and a delicious sweet and savory sauce. This dish is not only flavorful but is also easy to make and can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. rice noodles
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup firm tofu, diced
  • 1/4 cup chicken or shrimp, cooked
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup bean sprouts
  • 2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts

For the sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, soak the rice noodles in hot water for 10-15 minutes until softened.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and chili powder to make the Pad Thai sauce.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat.
  4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the tofu and chicken or shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned.
  6. Push the meat and tofu to one side of the skillet and add the beaten egg to the empty side. Scramble the egg until just set, then mix it in with the meat and tofu.
  7. Drain the noodles and add them to the skillet, tossing them with the meat, tofu, and egg mixture.
  8. Pour the Pad Thai sauce over the noodles and mix until well combined.
  9. Add the green onions and bean sprouts, and cook for an additional minute until the vegetables are heated through.
  10. Remove from heat and garnish the dish with chopped roasted peanuts.

Pad Thai is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. You can use any protein you like, such as chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef, and add in your favorite vegetables to make it more nutritious. You can also adjust the spiciness level of the dish by adding more or less chili powder or adding some sriracha sauce. With this quick and easy recipe, you can make a delicious Pad Thai in less than 30 minutes and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. Happy cooking!