Unique Pad Thai

Unique Pad Thai Recipe from Thailand with Rice Noodles and Peanut Oil

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pad Thai is a popular and delicious Thai dish that is loved by many around the world. This unique version of Pad Thai combines the traditional flavors of the dish with a few twists to create a truly unforgettable meal.

History

Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish that originated in Thailand. It is believed to have been created during World War II as a way to promote Thai nationalism. The dish quickly became popular and is now a staple in Thai cuisine.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) dried rice noodles (width of linguine)
0.25 cup fresh lime juice
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 to 2 tsp hot chile sauce
2 tsp peanut oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 to 2 tsp peeled, grated fresh ginger
1 medium carrot, peeled and cut into narrow strips
8 to 10 scallions, halved lengthwise, then cut into 2 inches lengths
1 cup mung bean sprouts
2 tbsp chopped dry-roasted peanuts
0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges, optional

How to prepare

1. In a large bowl, soak rice noodles in enough warm water to cover, until they become limp and white, for about 20 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, chili sauce, and 1 tbsp of water. Set it aside.
3. In a wok or large, deep skillet, heat oil over high heat. Add garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add carrot and scallions, and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the lime-soy mixture and toss gently.
4. Drain the noodles and add them to the wok, tossing with tongs until the noodles soften and curl, for about 1 minute. Add bean sprouts and lightly toss. Serve garnished with peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges if desired.

Variations

Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for added protein.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
Experiment with different types of noodles such as rice noodles or egg noodles.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soak the rice noodles in warm water until they become limp and white before cooking.

- Stir-fry the garlic and ginger over high heat to release their flavors.

- Toss the noodles gently in the wok to prevent them from breaking.

- Garnish the dish with peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this unique Pad Thai with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying, soaking, and tossing are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use spaghetti or fettuccine noodles if you don't have linguine.

- Substitute honey for brown sugar.

- Use almond butter or tahini in place of peanut oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can soak the rice noodles ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this unique Pad Thai in a large serving bowl garnished with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and soy sauce.

Summary

This unique Pad Thai recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a delicious meal.

Summary

This unique Pad Thai recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl with a passion for cooking. I had always loved experimenting in the kitchen, trying out new dishes and flavors, but nothing could have prepared me for the day I stumbled upon the recipe for Unique Pad Thai.

It all started when I was visiting my aunt in Thailand. She was a wonderful cook, and I loved watching her prepare traditional Thai dishes with such skill and precision. One day, as we were sitting in her kitchen, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook from her bookshelf and handed it to me.

"Here, dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "This is a recipe for a unique Pad Thai that has been in our family for generations. Give it a try and see what you think."

I eagerly flipped through the pages of the cookbook, my eyes widening at the list of exotic ingredients and complex instructions. This was unlike any Pad Thai recipe I had ever seen before. It called for a special blend of spices, fresh herbs, and even a secret sauce that my aunt had made herself.

Excited and determined, I set out to make the Unique Pad Thai. I spent hours in the kitchen, chopping, stirring, and tasting as I followed each step of the recipe with care and attention. The aromas that filled the air were heavenly, and I knew I was onto something special.

When I finally served the dish to my family that evening, their reactions were priceless. They marveled at the flavors, the textures, and the overall deliciousness of the Unique Pad Thai. My aunt beamed with pride as she watched us all enjoy her family recipe.

From that day on, I was hooked. I made the Unique Pad Thai over and over again, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I shared it with friends and neighbors, who all raved about its unique and unforgettable flavor. It became my signature dish, the one that everyone requested whenever they came over for a meal.

As the years passed, I continued to make the Unique Pad Thai, each time adding a little twist of my own. I experimented with different types of noodles, vegetables, and proteins, always striving to perfect the recipe and make it truly my own.

And now, as I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day in my aunt's kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift she gave me. The Unique Pad Thai has become more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of my love for cooking, my passion for creativity, and my desire to share something special with those I care about.

I may have learned the recipe from my aunt, but I like to think that I've made it uniquely my own. And as I continue to cook and create in the kitchen, I know that the memory of finding this special recipe will always stay with me, guiding me as I explore new flavors, techniques, and culinary adventures. The Unique Pad Thai will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of where it all began and where it can still take me in the future.