Name: Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 14 oz rice noodles; ¼ cup canola oil; 1 lb shrimp; 8 oz extra firm tofu; 3 eggs; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; ¼ cup fish sauce; ⅓ cup white sugar; ½ tsp red pepper; 1 cup Bean Sprouts; 3 carrots; ¼ cup peanuts; 2 Green Onions; 1 lime; cilantro

This delightful Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai recipe brings the tantalizing flavors of Thai cuisine right into your kitchen. It's a vibrant blend of sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness with a variety of textures from the shrimp, tofu, and fresh vegetables. The best part is, it's easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Photos of Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that might not be in your regular pantry staples, such as fish sauce and rice noodles. Fish sauce is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine, known for its umami flavor, and can be found in the Asian aisle of most supermarkets. Rice noodles are also more commonly used in Asian cooking and can be found in the same aisle. If you can't find them, you may substitute with regular noodles.

Ingredients for Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai

Rice noodles: These are flat, thin noodles made from rice flour and water. They are gluten-free and absorb flavors well.

Canola oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp and tofu for a high heat and neutral flavor.

Shrimp: Adds a seafood flavor and protein to the dish.

Extra firm tofu: Adds protein and texture.

Eggs: Contributes to the richness of the dish.

Rice vinegar: Adds a mild and slightly sweet tanginess.

Fish sauce: Gives the dish its distinctive umami flavor.

White sugar: Balances the salty, spicy, and sour flavors.

Red pepper: Adds a bit of heat.

Bean sprouts: Adds a nice, fresh crunch.

Carrots: Adds color, sweetness, and crunch.

Peanuts: Gives extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Green onions: Provides a mild onion flavor and color.

Lime: Its juice brightens up the flavors.

Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby flavor.

One reader, Gerrie Morgan says:

This shrimp and peanut pad thai recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the combination of shrimp, tofu, and peanuts creates a delightful texture. The dish is easy to prepare and impresses every time. It's now a family favorite in our household!

Gerrie Morgan

Essential Techniques for Making Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai

How to prepare the rice noodles: Boil the rice noodles in water for 1 minute, then turn off the heat and let them sit for five minutes. After they have softened, rinse the noodles with cold water and set them aside.

How to cook the shrimp and tofu: Heat canola oil in a wok over high heat, then add the shrimp and tofu cubes. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, then remove the shrimp and tofu from the pan.

How to scramble the eggs: Add the eggs into the hot oil and chop them with a spatula into small pieces while cooking.

How to assemble the pad thai: Combine the softened noodles, cooked shrimp, tofu, rice vinegar, fish sauce, sugar, and red pepper in the wok. Toss everything together until well combined.

How to serve the pad thai: Serve the pad thai topped with bean sprouts, carrots, green onions, peanuts, and lime wedges. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

How To Make Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts

This classic Asian favorite Pad Thai made with shrimp, tofu, rice noodles, and peanuts then tossed in a zesty sauce is a great meal to prepare for dinner.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

14ozrice noodles
¼cupcanola oil
1lbshrimp,peeled and deveined
8ozextra firm tofu,cut into ½ inch cubes
3eggs
2tbsprice vinegar
¼cupfish sauce
⅓cupwhite sugar
½tspred pepper,crushed
1cupBean Sprouts
3carrots,julienned
¼cuppeanuts,crushed
2green onions,chopped
1lime,cut into wedges
cilantro,for garnish, optional

Instructions

Add the rice noodles to boiling water for 1 minute then turn off the heat and let sit for five minutes.
When softened, rinse with cold water and set aside.
Add canola oil to a wok on high heat and add the shrimp and tofu cubes.
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side then remove the shrimp and tofu from the pan.
Add the eggs into the hot oil and chop with a spatula into little pieces while you cook.
Add softened noodles, shrimp, tofu, rice vinegar, fish sauce, sugar, and red pepper.
Serve topped with bean sprouts, carrots, green onions, and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Calories: 566.34kcal
Fat: 18.71g
Saturated Fat: 2.52g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.15g
Carbohydrates: 73.65g
Fiber: 4.15g
Sugar: 14.48g
Protein: 26.12g
Cholesterol: 175.23mg
Sodium: 1552.07mg
Calcium: 355.79mg
Potassium: 467.53mg
Iron: 2.83mg
Vitamin A: 344.08µg
Vitamin C: 9.58mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pad Thai

When cooking the shrimp and tofu, it's important to not overcook them as they can become tough and lose their flavor. Shrimp typically turns a pinkish color and curls into a C-shape when it's done. As for the tofu, it should be golden brown on all sides. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit even after removed from the heat, so it's better to undercook them slightly in the initial stage.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pad Thai

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate proteins in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to maximize efficiency, such as boiling water while prepping ingredients.

Invest in tools: Use kitchen tools like food processors, mandolines, and sharp knives to speed up prep work and cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts Recipe

shrimp - Substitute with chicken or tofu: Shrimp can be substituted with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian or poultry alternative. Both options will absorb the flavors of the dish well.
peanuts - Substitute with cashews or almonds: Cashews or almonds can be used as a substitute for peanuts to add a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the dish.

Presenting Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use colorful and vibrant ingredients to add visual appeal. Arrange the shrimp and tofu meticulously, and ensure the noodles are elegantly placed.
Garnish with precision: Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch and a touch of sophistication. Carefully place the bean sprouts and julienne-cut carrots to create a balanced and visually appealing composition.
Emphasize freshness: Highlight the freshness of the dish by adding a pop of green with finely chopped cilantro and thinly sliced green onions. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor.
Lime wedges for a touch of elegance: Serve the dish with neatly cut lime wedges placed strategically on the plate. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also allows the diners to customize the dish to their taste.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the overall cleanliness and presentation of the plate. Wipe away any smudges or spills to ensure a flawless presentation that reflects the high standards of a Michelin-starred establishment.

Essential Tools for Making Pad Thai

Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, pan-frying, deep-frying, poaching, boiling, braising, searing, stewing, making soup, smoking, and roasting nuts.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, or spreading food.
Boiling pot: A large pot used for boiling water to cook the rice noodles.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used to drain water from the boiled rice noodles.
Chopping board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing and dicing ingredients.
Wok spatula: A long-handled, shovel-like utensil used for stir-frying and scooping food in a wok.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with a surface of sharp-edged holes used to shred food items.
Citrus juicer: A tool used to extract juice from citrus fruits like lime.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for the recipe.
Cooking pot: A large, deep pot used for cooking the pad thai sauce.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms that are joined with a pivot used for gripping and lifting the hot shrimp and tofu.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl used for serving the pad thai sauce.
Grill pan: A pan with raised ridges used for grilling the shrimp and tofu.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Microplane: A kitchen tool used to grate ingredients like lime zest or ginger.
Juicer: A tool used to extract juice from fruits or vegetables.
Strainer: A device used for separating solid matter from a liquid, such as straining the pad thai sauce.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai

Let the pad thai cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled pad thai into individual serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen pad thai in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed pad thai in a wok or large skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if the noodles seem dry.
For best results, add fresh bean sprouts, carrots, green onions, and a squeeze of lime juice before serving to refresh the flavors and textures.
Note: The shrimp and tofu may change texture slightly after being frozen and thawed, but the overall taste of the dish should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Pad Thai

Reheat the pad thai in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
For a crispy texture, spread the leftover pad thai on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the edges of the noodles are slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Microwave the pad thai in a microwave-safe container with a damp paper towel covering the top. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. This method is quick but may result in slightly softer noodles.
If you have a steamer basket, you can reheat the pad thai by placing it in the basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain moisture without making the noodles soggy.
For a fresh twist, transform your leftover pad thai into a stir-fry. Heat some oil in a wok, add the pad thai, and toss with additional vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or snap peas. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the noodles are heated through.

Interesting Fact About Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a popular Thai street food dish that was created in the 1930s as part of a nationalistic campaign to reduce rice consumption in Thailand.

Is Making Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai at Home Cost-Effective?

This shrimp and peanut pad thai recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as rice noodles, shrimp, tofu, and vegetables, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for the family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, taste, and nutritional value.

Is Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai Healthy or Unhealthy?

This shrimp and peanut pad thai recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense ingredients like shrimp, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, carrots, and green onions. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while tofu provides plant-based protein and healthy fats. Vegetables like bean sprouts, carrots, and green onions offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as a significant amount of sugar and the use of canola oil, which is highly processed and may contain harmful compounds when heated to high temperatures.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or coconut sugar
Use a healthier cooking oil, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, which are more stable at high temperatures and offer beneficial fats
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish to boost fiber and nutrient content
Opt for whole grain rice noodles to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
Use low-sodium fish sauce or replace it with a mixture of soy sauce and lime juice to reduce the overall sodium content
Add more herbs like cilantro and Thai basil to enhance flavor without relying on excessive sugar or salt

Editor's Opinion on This Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai Recipe

This shrimp and peanut pad thai recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of rice noodles, shrimp, tofu, and a variety of vegetables creates a harmonious balance in each bite. The addition of peanuts adds a delightful crunch, while the lime and cilantro bring a refreshing brightness to the dish. The cooking method is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress anyone who enjoys a good pad thai.

Enhance Your Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and steamed to perfection.

Grilled Pineapple: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to bring out their natural sweetness and caramelized flavor.

Coconut Curry Soup: A creamy and aromatic soup with a perfect balance of spices and coconut milk.

Mango Sorbet: A refreshing and fruity sorbet made with ripe mangoes for a delightful dessert option.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Pad Thai

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It's a quick and easy dish that's sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and savory.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is a delightful mix of juicy mango, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy and sweet dressing. It's the perfect dish for a light and satisfying meal.

Coconut Curry Soup: This creamy coconut curry soup is a comforting blend of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and tender vegetables. It's a hearty and flavorful soup that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Berry Crisp: This berry crisp is a delightful dessert that's bursting with juicy berries and topped with a crunchy oat and nut topping. It's a sweet and satisfying treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Shrimp and Peanut Pad Thai

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delightful appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a batch of crispy coconut shrimp by coating fresh shrimp in a seasoned batter and shredded coconut. Fry until golden brown and serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a tropical twist on a classic appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting another slice.

Why trust this Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts Recipe:

This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The combination of fresh shrimp, tofu, and rice noodles creates a satisfying and wholesome meal. The use of fish sauce and rice vinegar adds depth and complexity to the dish, while the peanuts provide a delightful crunch. The inclusion of bean sprouts and carrots introduces a refreshing element, enhancing the overall appeal. With the careful selection of ingredients and precise cooking instructions, this recipe guarantees a delicious and authentic pad thai experience.

Want to share your own twist on this Pad Thai With Shrimp and Peanuts Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can omit the shrimp and use vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas as a substitute. You can also add more tofu or even try using plant-based protein alternatives.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can use different types of noodles such as flat rice noodles, egg noodles, or even whole wheat noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions as different noodles may require different cooking times.

Is there a substitute for fish sauce?

If you prefer to avoid fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a splash of lime juice. This will provide a similar umami flavor with a hint of acidity.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the rice noodles and all the sauces used, such as the fish sauce and soy sauce, are certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can substitute the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy Pad Thai fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. When you're ready to eat, simply stir-fry everything together for a few minutes until heated through.