Are you ready to spice up your nights with a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than our collection of 18 Spicy Pad Thai Recipes. This classic Thai noodle dish has captured hearts around the world, and for good reason – its combination of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors is a taste sensation like no other.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore the many variations of Pad Thai that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic chicken and shrimp recipes to vegetarian and vegan options, and even some innovative twists with ingredients like peanut butter and grilled beef, there’s something for everyone in our lineup. Whether you’re a Pad Thai aficionado or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Chicken Pad Thai with Tamarind Sauce
This beloved Southeast Asian dish combines stir-fried chicken, rice noodles, and a tangy tamarind sauce, all wrapped up in a flavorful and aromatic package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return chicken to the wok. Add cooked noodles and stir-fry until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai with Peanuts
Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai with Peanuts: A flavorful twist on the classic Thai dish, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with spicy peanut sauce and crunchy peanuts for a delightful fusion of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked noodles and shrimp back into the pan. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Pad Thai with Tofu and Bean Sprouts
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Thailand with the comfort of vegetarian ingredients, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. With its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the bean sprouts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked noodles, tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked tofu, onion-garlic mixture, and chopped peanuts to the bowl. Toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Weeknight Pad Thai with Rice Noodles
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic-tasting Pad Thai in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or tofu; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Pour mixture over the vegetable mixture; stir to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet; toss to combine with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Street-Style Pad Thai with Lime Wedges
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this classic street-style Pad Thai recipe. This stir-fry noodle dish is a staple of Thai cuisine, made with a combination of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken/tofu; stir-fry 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, and palm sugar.
6. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok; stir-fry until noodles are well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Pad Thai with Garlic Chives
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Pad Thai with crispy pork and pungent garlic chives, elevating this popular dish to new heights. Quick, easy, and deliciously addictive!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1 cup crispy pork strips (cooked and drained)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp garlic chives, chopped
– 2 tbsp tamarind paste
– 2 tbsp palm sugar
– 1 tsp fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add mixed vegetables, crispy pork, garlic, and garlic chives. Stir-fry until combined.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until noodles are well coated.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pad Thai with Pineapple
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors in this twist on the classic Pad Thai dish, featuring juicy pineapple chunks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, peas)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cups Pad Thai sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and pineapple chunks; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in Pad Thai sauce and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked noodles to the wok or frying pan; toss to combine with sauce and vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Crab Meat and Green Onions
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Pad Thai with the added luxury of succulent crab meat and crunchy green onions. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons peanuts
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crab meat, tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until crab is heated through.
4. Add cooked noodles, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute to combine flavors.
5. Garnish with green onions and peanuts. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Pad Thai with Mushrooms and Bok Choy
A flavorful and nutritious vegan twist on the classic Thai dish, featuring sautéed mushrooms and bok choy in a savory tamarind-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cups bok choy, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegan Pad Thai sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the tofu according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bok choy and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Pad Thai sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the mushroom-bok choy mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked tofu and stir-fry everything together for about 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Grilled Beef and Chili Flakes
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this twist on a classic dish. Tender grilled beef and a kick of chili flakes add depth to this stir-fry, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Pad Thai sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Pad Thai sauce and chili flakes. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
5. Slice grilled beef into thin strips and add to the wok. Stir-fry to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Pad Thai with Crushed Cashews
This creamy and nutty take on traditional Pad Thai combines the richness of peanut butter with the crunch of crushed cashews, creating a flavor profile that is both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, and green onions)
– 1/4 cup crushed cashews
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked noodles, peanut butter, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Stir-fry until well combined.
6. Top with crushed cashews and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Squid and Bell Peppers
This recipe adds a twist to the classic Pad Thai by incorporating tender squid and crunchy bell peppers, creating a flavorful and texturally interesting dish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1/2 pound cleaned and sliced squid
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add squid, onion, and bell pepper. Stir-fry until squid is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. Add garlic, tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Stir well to combine.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, ensuring noodles are well coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten-Free Pad Thai with Coconut Aminos
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional Pad Thai with the convenience of gluten-free ingredients and the savory taste of coconut aminos. This dish is perfect for those looking for a gluten-free alternative to the classic street food.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles (gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/2 cup peanuts or cashews
– 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
– 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables, peanuts or cashews, and cooked noodles; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, gluten-free soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
6. Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture; stir-fry until well coated, about 1 minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Duck and Basil Leaves
This recipe combines the rich flavors of duck with the familiar sweetness of Pad Thai, all wrapped up in fragrant basil leaves. Perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked duck breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
3. Add duck strips, mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok or skillet; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick and Easy Pad Thai with Egg Ribbons
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a flavorful and nutritious Pad Thai dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe adds an egg-cellent twist with crispy egg ribbons on top.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, and fish sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through. Cut into thin strips.
5. Combine noodles with vegetable mixture. Add egg ribbons on top. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts or cilantro. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Scallops and Lemon Zest
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Pad Thai with the sweetness of scallops and a burst of citrus from lemon zest. A perfect combination for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup cooked Pad Thai noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Pad Thai noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add scallops; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
4. In same skillet, add mixed vegetables, tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Add cooked noodles, scallops, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Mango Pad Thai with Fresh Herbs
This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of chili flakes, all wrapped up in a savory Pad Thai sauce. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a bright and refreshing touch to this popular Southeast Asian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, combine tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, ginger, and chili flakes. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add cooked noodles, mango, and the sauce mixture to the wok or skillet. Toss everything together for about 2-3 minutes, until noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pad Thai with Chicken Satay and Cucumber
This classic Southeast Asian dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of grilled chicken satay and refreshing cucumber slices. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors in every bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced into strips
– 1/4 cup satay sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. Grill chicken satay according to your preference.
3. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Add cooked noodles, chicken satay, satay sauce, soy sauce, palm sugar, fish sauce, and cumin. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately garnished with cucumber slices, peanuts, and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouthwatering Pad Thai recipes! From classic chicken dishes to vegan and gluten-free options, this collection has something for everyone. Indulge in flavors like tamarind sauce, peanuts, and chili flakes as you explore international twists on the beloved Thai dish. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or looking for a special occasion recipe, these pad thai recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover new favorites and elevate your cooking skills with this diverse selection of spicy Pad Thai recipes.
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