Perfect Pad Thai Recipe with Video Tutorial - 2026

Welcome to Learn All The Recipes! Today, we're diving into one of the most beloved Thai dishes: Pad Thai. This classic street food is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, and we've got the perfect Pad Thai recipe for you to try at home. Plus, we've included a video tutorial to help visual learners master this dish with ease. Let's get started!

What is Pad Thai?

Pad Thai is a traditional Thai stir-fried noodle dish that originated in the 1930s. It's a delightful combination of rice noodles, protein (usually tofu, shrimp, or chicken), eggs, and a tangy sauce made from tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar. The dish is typically garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro.

The Ultimate Pad Thai Recipe

Our Pad Thai recipe is designed to be easy to follow, whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner. We've included step-by-step instructions and a video tutorial to ensure you get it right every time.

Ingredients

  • 200g rice noodles (medium thickness)
  • 200g firm tofu, pressed and cubed (or 200g shrimp or chicken)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
  • 2 lime wedges
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Pad Thai Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons tamarind concentrate
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons palm sugar

Instructions

  1. Soak the Noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until they are soft but still firm. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the tamarind concentrate, fish sauce, and palm sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
  3. Stir-Fry: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced shallots, and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add Protein: Add the cubed tofu (or shrimp/chicken) to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Add Eggs: Push the tofu (or protein) to one side of the wok and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs briefly, then mix them with the tofu.
  6. Add Noodles and Sauce: Add the drained noodles to the wok and pour the Pad Thai sauce over them. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the sauce.
  7. Add Vegetables: Add the bean sprouts and green onions to the wok and stir-fry for another minute.
  8. Serve: Transfer the Pad Thai to a serving plate. Garnish with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Video Tutorial for Visual Learners

If you're a visual learner, our video tutorial is just for you! Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and watch as we create the perfect Pad Thai right before your eyes. Click the link below to access the video:

Watch the Pad Thai Video Tutorial

Tips for the Perfect Pad Thai

To ensure your Pad Thai turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in the flavor of your Pad Thai. Use fresh garlic, shallots, and herbs to get the best taste.

Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste

The Pad Thai sauce can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer it sweeter, add more palm sugar. If you like it tangier, increase the tamarind concentrate. Experiment with the ratios until you find your perfect balance.

Cook the Noodles Just Right

Overcooked noodles can ruin a good Pad Thai. Make sure to soak them in warm water until they are soft but still have a bit of bite. Drain them well before adding to the wok.

Don't Overcrowd the Wok

Stir-frying requires high heat and constant movement. Make sure not to overcrowd the wok with too many ingredients at once. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the proper heat and texture.

Variations of Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

Vegetarian Pad Thai

For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu and make sure to use vegetable oil. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Spicy Pad Thai

If you like a bit of heat, add sliced Thai chilies or red pepper flakes to the wok when stir-frying the garlic and shallots. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.

Pad Thai with Shrimp

For a seafood twist, use shrimp instead of tofu. Peel and devein the shrimp before adding them to the wok. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Health Benefits of Pad Thai

Pad Thai is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are some health benefits of the key ingredients:

Rice Noodles

Rice noodles are a great source of carbohydrates and are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Tofu

Tofu is rich in protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. It's also a good source of calcium and iron.

Bean Sprouts

Bean sprouts are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.

Garlic and Shallots

Garlic and shallots have anti-inflammatory properties and are known for their antioxidant benefits. They also contain allicin, which has been shown to have immune-boosting effects.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of Pad Thai is a rewarding experience that will impress your family and friends. With our comprehensive recipe and video tutorial, you'll be able to create the perfect Pad Thai at home in no time. Don't forget to experiment with different variations and adjustments to make the dish your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your culinary journey with Learn All The Recipes!