Homemade Pad Thai with Shrimp or Tofu
This homemade Pad Thai offers a balanced and flavorful meal, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Featuring tender rice noodles, your choice of protein, and a vibrant homemade tamarind sauce, it's a pregnancy-friendly twist on a classic.
For 4 servings
Prepare the noodles: Place rice noodles in a large heatproof bowl. Pour enough hot (not boiling) water over them to cover completely. Let soak for 8-10 minutes, or until pliable but still firm to the bite (al dente). Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Make the Pad Thai sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water until the sugar is dissolved. If desired, add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Cook aromatics and protein: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced shallots, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add your chosen protein (shrimp or tofu). If using shrimp, cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque; if using tofu, cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Push the cooked protein and aromatics to one side of the wok.
Scramble the eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space in the wok. Let them set for about 30 seconds, then scramble and break them into small pieces with your spatula. Once cooked, mix them with the protein and aromatics.
Combine and toss: Add the drained rice noodles to the wok. Pour the prepared Pad Thai sauce evenly over the noodles. Using tongs or two spatulas, toss everything together vigorously for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles are fully coated and heated through. The noodles should become slightly sticky and absorb the sauce.
Add vegetables: Stir in the bean sprouts and green onions. Continue to toss for another 1-2 minutes, just until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain a crisp bite.
Serve immediately: Divide the Pad Thai among serving plates. Garnish generously with crushed roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro (if using), and serve with lime wedges on the side for a final squeeze of freshness.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't oversoak the noodles: Soaking in hot (not boiling) water prevents them from becoming mushy. They should still be slightly firm when you drain them, as they will continue to cook in the wok.
- 2High heat is key: Use a large wok or skillet and cook over medium-high to high heat. This helps to achieve that characteristic 'wok hei' (breath of the wok) and prevents the noodles from sticking or becoming soggy.
- 3Prep everything in advance: Pad Thai cooks very quickly, so have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and the sauce mixed before you start stir-frying. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
- 4Adjust sweetness and tang: Taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles. You can add a little more brown sugar for sweetness, or a splash more tamarind paste or lime juice for tang, to suit your preference.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
For a fully vegan version, omit the eggs and shrimp. Use pressed extra-firm tofu and substitute fish sauce with a vegan fish sauce alternative or an additional tablespoon of soy sauce/tamari and a pinch of seaweed for umami.
Spice LevelSpice Level
Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or serve with sriracha or a side of fresh sliced bird's eye chilies for those who prefer extra spice.
Added VegetablesAdded Vegetables
Incorporate other quick-cooking vegetables like thinly sliced red bell peppers, shredded carrots, or baby bok choy during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Whether you choose shrimp or tofu, this dish provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, which is particularly important during pregnancy.
Good Source of Fiber
With rice noodles, bean sprouts, and other vegetables, this Pad Thai offers dietary fiber, aiding in digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Nutrient-Dense Vegetables
The inclusion of bean sprouts and green onions provides vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, contributing to a well-rounded and healthy diet.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use 100% rice noodles and substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Fish sauce is typically gluten-free, but always check the label.
