Authentic Pad Thai
Thailand's most beloved street food — stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, peanuts and tamarind.
About This Thailand Recipe
Authentic Pad Thai is one of the most beloved dishes from Thailand, deeply rooted in the country's culinary tradition. This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations and represents the very soul of Thailand's food culture.
The secret to an authentic Authentic Pad Thai lies in the quality of ingredients and the patience of preparation. Every component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavours that makes this dish so special. When you cook this recipe, you're not just making food — you're recreating a piece of Thailand's rich culinary heritage.
How to Cook Authentic Pad Thai — Complete Guide
Before You Begin
Read the entire recipe before starting. Gather and measure all ingredients (mise en place). This easy-difficulty dish takes approximately 20 min to prepare and 15 min to cook — allow 15 min extra time if this is your first attempt.
Difficulty
Easy
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
15 min
Serves
2 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step carefully. Steps are ordered for best results — don't skip ahead.
- 1
Soak noodles
This is your starting step — proper preparation here ensures everything else goes smoothly.
- 2
Fry shrimp
- 3
Add noodles and sauce
- 4
Push aside, scramble eggs
- 5
Combine and serve
Final step — your Authentic Pad Thai is almost ready to serve!
Chef's Tips & Tricks
Expert advice to help you nail this dish every time:
High heat is key for wok hei flavor
Don't overcrowd the wok
Serving Suggestions
Authentic Pad Thai is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the kitchen. In Thailand, this dish is traditionally served as a noodles and pairs beautifully with local side dishes and beverages. Consider serving it family-style for a truly authentic experience.
For the most authentic presentation, use traditional Thailand tableware if available. Garnish generously and serve immediately — this dish does not improve with waiting. Leftovers can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Ingredients
For 2 servings
- 200g flat rice noodles
- 200g shrimp
- 2 eggs
- 100g bean sprouts
- 4 tbsp tamarind paste
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp palm sugar
- Peanuts
- Green onions
- Lime
Want to eat this in Thailand?
🇹🇭 Thailand Travel Guide