Discover how to make a delicious and authentic Pad Thai with peanut sauce recipe. Packed with flavors, this vibrant Thai dish combines the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory elements. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, learn how to prepare this tasty noodle dish from scratch.
Introduction
Pad Thai is a popular street food in Thailand that has earned its place on restaurant menus worldwide. Known for its bold flavors and combination of textures, this stir-fried noodle dish often features a mix of tangy tamarind, salty fish sauce, sweet sugar, and a touch of spice. While traditional Pad Thai recipes are typically made with a fish sauce-based stir-fry sauce, today we’re taking a different approach with a rich and creamy peanut sauce twist.
This Pad Thai with peanut sauce recipe offers a delicious variation on the classic dish, providing a smooth, nutty sauce that complements the stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and protein of your choice. The peanut sauce adds an extra layer of richness and flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you prefer tofu, shrimp, or chicken, this recipe is customizable to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s easy to prepare at home!
In this article, we’ll guide you through each step, from making the peanut sauce to assembling the dish. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Pad Thai with Peanut Sauce
For the peanut sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, depending on your preference)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for a touch of extra flavor)
For the Pad Thai itself, you will need:
- 8 oz rice noodles (preferably flat, Pad Thai noodles)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced firm tofu, or protein of your choice (shrimp, chicken, or beef)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions for Making Pad Thai with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles
To begin, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, you’ll need to soak the noodles in warm water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re soft but still firm to the bite. After they’re done, drain and set them aside.
Tip: Make sure to stir the noodles occasionally while they’re soaking to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
While the noodles are soaking, it’s time to prepare the creamy peanut sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
If the sauce feels too thick, you can add water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If you like a bit of spice, feel free to stir in some sriracha sauce to taste.
Once the peanut sauce is smooth and creamy, set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Protein
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add your protein of choice (tofu, chicken, shrimp, etc.) and stir-fry until it’s cooked through. For tofu, make sure it gets crispy on the edges. If you’re using chicken or shrimp, cook until it’s no longer pink or fully browned.
Once cooked, remove the protein from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs
In the same skillet or wok, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until they’re just cooked. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine the Noodles, Peanut Sauce, and Veggies
Now, add the soaked rice noodles to the skillet along with the scrambled eggs. Pour in your prepared peanut sauce and toss everything together gently, making sure the noodles are evenly coated. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm through.
Add the bean sprouts, shredded carrots, and a little more soy sauce if desired. Stir everything to combine. If you prefer your Pad Thai with a little extra crunch, you can keep the bean sprouts and carrots on the side to garnish at the end.
Step 6: Assemble and Garnish
To serve, divide the Pad Thai evenly between plates. Top each portion with your cooked protein (tofu, shrimp, chicken, etc.). Garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro (if using), and a wedge of lime.
For added flavor, squeeze a bit of lime juice over the top before digging in. The tangy lime will balance the richness of the peanut sauce beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Pad Thai with Peanut Sauce
- Customize Your Protein: Feel free to use shrimp, chicken, tofu, or even a combination of proteins. For a vegan option, tofu is an excellent choice, while shrimp and chicken give the dish a more traditional Pad Thai feel.
- Adjust the Spice: The peanut sauce includes sriracha, but you can adjust the heat level to suit your preferences. For less spice, reduce the sriracha, or omit it altogether. For more heat, increase the amount.
- Texture Matters: Pad Thai is all about textures—soft noodles, crunchy peanuts, fresh vegetables, and tender protein. Be sure not to overcook the vegetables or the noodles. Bean sprouts should remain crispy, while carrots should still have a slight crunch.
- Use Fresh Lime: Fresh lime juice adds a tangy brightness to the dish. Don’t skimp on this ingredient, as it elevates the flavors and balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the peanut sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir and add a bit of water if it thickens too much.
Healthier Alternatives
While Pad Thai with peanut sauce is already a satisfying dish, there are a few modifications you can make to lighten it up or add more nutrients:
- Use Zucchini Noodles: If you want to reduce the carbs, try substituting the rice noodles with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or another vegetable-based noodle alternative.
- Add More Veggies: You can easily incorporate more vegetables into your Pad Thai. Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to the mix for added nutrition.
- Opt for Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, choose low-sodium soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce.
Pad Thai with peanut sauce is an irresistible dish that delivers a wonderful balance of flavors—creamy, savory, tangy, and sweet, with a delightful crunch from the peanuts. Whether you’re a Pad Thai purist or you’re in the mood for something a little different, this peanut sauce variation is sure to satisfy your cravings.
This recipe is also versatile and customizable. You can adjust the spice, choose your favorite protein, and even make it vegan by using tofu. With its perfect combination of textures and vibrant flavors, Pad Thai with peanut sauce is a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Happy cooking!
