Name: Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 200g / 7oz flat rice noodles; 300g / 11oz large shrimp (prawns); 2½ tbsp tamarind purée (not sauce!); 3 tbsp fish sauce; 3 tbsp light brown sugar (or palm sugar); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 1 shallot; 3 cloves garlic; Chilli flakes (to taste, about 1 tsp); 4 green onions (green parts only, cut into 2 inch lengths); 2 eggs (lightly beaten); 200g / 2 cups beansprouts; 35g / 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (chopped); 1 lime (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you’ve been craving a taste of Thailand’s vibrant street food scene, look no further than this irresistible Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe. Bursting with bold flavors from tamarind, fish sauce, and a hint of chili, combined with the satisfying snap of fresh bean sprouts and perfectly cooked shrimp, this dish delivers an authentic experience right in your own kitchen. It’s a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, all wrapped up in tender rice noodles that soak up the sauce just right. Whether you’re a Pad Thai veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled textured surface. There are flat white noodles folded in layers on the top left, a small bunch of green onion stalks placed vertically below the noodles. Two brown eggs sit side by side inside a white bowl in the top middle area. A small white bowl with light brown powder is nearby, along with a lemon green in color. A white plate on the right holds two light purple shallots, a small clove of garlic, and some red chili flakes. Below the plate, there is a small white container holding thin almond slices, a dark brown small cup of sauce, a white cup with pale yellow liquid, and a white bowl with dark gray shrimp above it. A woman's hand holds a small black knife with a wooden handle near the small white container. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the perfect chewiness in the noodles to adding that signature tangy and savory punch that makes the dish unforgettable.

Flat rice noodles (200g / 7oz): Soak them until tender but still slightly chewy for the ideal texture.
Large shrimp (300g / 11oz): Fresh or thawed, they add a succulent seafood sweetness that’s key to this dish.
Tamarind purée (2½ tbsp): Not sauce, it’s the soul of Pad Thai’s tangy, slightly sour taste.
Fish sauce (3 tbsp): Brings a salty umami depth, essential for authentic flavor.
Light brown sugar or palm sugar (3 tbsp): Balances out the tang and salt with a gentle sweetness.
Vegetable oil (2 tbsp, divided): For stir-frying while keeping the noodles from sticking.
Shallot (1): Adds mild sweetness and aromatic complexity.
Garlic (3 cloves): Gives the dish a fragrant punch that complements shrimp perfectly.
Chilli flakes (to taste, about 1 tsp): For heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
Green onions (4, green parts only): They provide a fresh, sharp contrast and vibrant color.
Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Add richness and help bind the noodles together.
Beansprouts (200g / 2 cups): Deliver a fresh, crunchy texture that keeps the dish lively.
Roasted peanuts (35g / ¼ cup, chopped): Sprinkle for nuttiness and delightful crunch.
Lime (1): A squeeze of citrus brightness just before serving brings everything together.

How to Make Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Sauce

First, soak your flat rice noodles in hot water for 30 to 40 minutes until they soften but still have a slight bounce. While the noodles soak, mix together the tamarind purée, fish sauce, and light brown sugar in a bowl. This sweet and tangy sauce is the heart of your Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe, so be sure to stir until the sugar dissolves fully, creating that perfect balance you’re after.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add your shrimp and cook them quickly until they turn pink on both sides, which usually takes just a couple of minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery fast. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set them aside – they’ll come back into the mix shortly.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Noodles

Use the same wok and add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in your finely chopped shallot, minced garlic, and chili flakes, stir-frying for about a minute until fragrant and lively aromas fill your kitchen. Next, drain the noodles and add them straight to the wok, along with a bit of the soaking water clinging to them; this helps keep the noodles from sticking. Pour over the prepared tamarind sauce and cook everything together, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. The noodles should be soft yet retain a lovely chewiness.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Push the noodles gently to one side of your wok, creating a space to pour in the beaten eggs. Let the eggs cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds, then pile the noodles on top, allowing the eggs to set just a bit more. Toss lightly to combine, making sure the eggs coat the noodles evenly for extra richness.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Veggies and Shrimp

Finally, bring in the bean sprouts, green onions, and cooked shrimp back to the wok. Toss all the ingredients together just until the green onions soften slightly but the bean sprouts stay crisp. Remove the wok from heat to preserve those fresh textures and vibrant colors. Your Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe is now ready for serving with a juicy wedge of lime and a scatter of chopped roasted peanuts.

How to Serve Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a stir-fried noodle dish with three main layers. The bottom layer is wide, flat light brown noodles that look soft and shiny, spread in a bowl. On top of the noodles, there are several small pink shrimp with a slightly curled shape, mixed with small pieces of scrambled egg that add yellow bits. Bean sprouts with thin white stems and green leafy vegetables are scattered over the noodles, adding fresh touches of green and white. A wedge of lime sits on the edge of the bowl, adding a bright green color contrast. The bowl is white and the surface beneath it is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you add those last little touches that makes your Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe shine. The chopped roasted peanuts add a necessary crunch and nuttiness, while lime wedges offer a zesty brightness that balances the dish beautifully. Sometimes, adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or extra chili flakes on top gives it a personalized flair.

Side Dishes

While Shrimp Pad Thai can absolutely be a meal on its own, pairing it with simple sides can round out your feast. Think crisp Thai cucumber salad or a light papaya salad, which bring refreshing crispness that plays off the rich noodles. Steamed jasmine rice is optional but welcome if you want to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe in little lettuce cups for a hand-held treat, or plate it in a shallow bowl with lime wedges and peanuts artfully arranged on top. Adding edible flowers or finely sliced red chili can make the dish pop visually and impress any guests at your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to two days, though the noodles may soak up more sauce over time, so stir gently before reheating.

Freezing

While you can freeze Shrimp Pad Thai, it’s not ideal because the noodles may become mushy after thawing. If you must freeze leftovers, place them in a sealed container and use within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, use a skillet or wok with a splash of oil over medium heat. Toss the noodles gently to warm evenly without drying out the shrimp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp tough and noodles clump together. A quick stir-fry method revives the fresh feel of the original dish.

FAQs

Can I substitute shrimp with another protein?

Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or even scallops work wonderfully with this Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked perfectly.

What if I can’t find tamarind purée?

Tamarind purée is quite distinctive, but you can try mixing lime juice with a little brown sugar and a splash of rice vinegar as a makeshift substitute. Keep in mind this changes the flavor slightly, but it will still taste delicious.

How spicy is this recipe?

The chili flakes add a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your preference. Feel free to reduce the amount for a milder dish or add more for a fiery kick.

Are the noodles gluten-free?

Traditional flat rice noodles are typically gluten-free, which makes this Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe a great option for those avoiding gluten. Always check the packaging to be sure.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace shrimp with firm tofu, and swap fish sauce for tamari or a vegan soy sauce alternative. You might also omit eggs or use a vegan egg substitute to keep it plant-based while retaining flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe truly captures the essence of authentic Thai cuisine while being approachable enough for any home cook. Every bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors with textures that keep you coming back for more. So grab those noodles, peel some shrimp, and dive into making your own delicious Pad Thai today—you won’t regret it!

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Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need