When the weather turns warm and the evenings stretch longer, I find myself craving something vibrant and delicious that embodies the spirit of summer. That’s when I whip up my Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns, a dish that doubles as an escape to the bustling streets of Thailand. The moment you heat the oil and toss in aromatic shallots, your kitchen fills with an enticing symphony of flavors.
This isn’t just any Pad Thai; it’s a quick and satisfying solution for those of us tired of lifeless takeout or repetitive weeknight dinners. With a combination of tender rice noodles, succulent prawns, and a hint of that tangy tamarind sauce, this dish is both easy to prepare and sure to impress. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner. So, let’s dive into this culinary adventure and transform your dinner routine with a homemade classic!
Why is this Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns unforgettable?
Quick preparation: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish that rivals your favorite Thai restaurant.
Flavor explosion: The harmony of tamarind, sugar, and fish sauce brings a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
Wholesome ingredients: Packed with fresh prawns, tofu, and crunchy veggies, it’s a nourishing meal that satisfies your cravings.
Family friendly: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and kids, making it ideal for family dinners.
Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables for a truly personalized dish. Make sure to check out my guide on easy homemade noodle dishes for more inspiration!
Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Thin dried rice noodles – Soak these in hot water until tender for the perfect texture.
• Small dried shrimp – Adds an extra layer of umami flavor to your dish.
For the Sauce
• Tamarind concentrate – This tangy ingredient is what makes your Authentic Pad Thai truly authentic.
• Palm sugar – Finely shaved, it balances the tartness of the tamarind with a natural sweetness.
• Fish sauce – A staple in Thai cuisine that brings a savory depth to the dish.
• Dark soy sauce – A touch of this gives a rich color and a hint of complexity to the flavor profile.
For the Main Dish
• Vegetable oil – Ideal for sautéing and creating a fragrant base for your dish.
• Asian red shallot – Sliced thin, it releases a sweet aroma when cooked.
• Prawns – Fresh, peeled and deveined, they become succulent and delightful when cooked.
• Firm tofu – Adds a protein-packed creaminess; cut into small dice for even cooking.
• Eggs – Lightly whisked, they create a soft texture and richness.
For the Garnish
• Chinese chives – Cut into 2cm batons for a fresh and slightly oniony crunch.
• Bean shoots – Add these for crunch and freshness, plus extra to serve.
• Crushed roasted peanuts – Sprinkled on top, they provide a delicious crunch.
• Lime wedges – Serve these on the side for a zesty kick.
• Chilli powder – Add to taste for those who love a bit of spice.
• Spring onion – Sliced, they brighten up the dish and add a fresh finish.
How to Make Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns
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Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 10 minutes until they become tender and pliable, then drain them well. This ensures they’ll have the perfect bite in your Pad Thai.
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Mix in a bowl the tamarind concentrate, palm sugar, fish sauce, and dark soy sauce. Stir until well combined, creating a deliciously tangy and sweet sauce for your dish.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the sliced Asian red shallot for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic, setting a fragrant base for the dish.
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Add the prawns to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, showcasing their fresh succulence.
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Stir in the small dried shrimp, pickled radish, diced tofu, and the drained noodles. Toss everything together for a minute, ensuring the noodles heat through and soak up the flavors.
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Pour the prepared sauce over the noodle mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every strand of noodle is coated in that luscious sauce.
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Push the mixture to one side of the pan, then add the whisked eggs. Scramble for about 1-2 minutes until just set, introducing a rich creaminess to your dish.
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Combine everything together in the pan, then add the Chinese chives and bean shoots. Mix well to incorporate, allowing the fresh veggies to warm through.
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Serve the pad Thai hot, generously topped with crushed roasted peanuts, lime wedges, chilli powder, and sliced spring onion for a burst of flavor and freshness.
Optional: For added freshness, serve with additional bean shoots on the side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns Variations
Feeling adventurous? Customize this recipe to match your taste buds and dietary needs—let’s make it unique!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the thin rice noodles with gluten-free rice vermicelli for a delight that’s safe for celiacs.
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Spicy Twist: Add sliced fresh chili or a dash of sriracha while cooking to ignite the dish with a fiery kick. The warmth will dance with the tangy flavors beautifully.
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Vegan-Friendly: Replace the prawns with sliced mushrooms or chickpeas and swap eggs for scrambled tofu, maintaining a delightful texture and flavor.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in a handful of diced bell peppers or carrots just before serving for added crunch and vibrant color, making each bite a feast for the senses.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish with fresh cilantro or basil towards the end, adding aromatic flavors that transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
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Nut-Free: Omit the peanuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without any allergens. They’ll still bring texture without compromising flavor.
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Asian Greens: Incorporate bok choy or spinach for extra nutrients and a pop of green, introducing freshness to elevate your meal further.
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Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a touch of pineapple or mango for a sweet contrast that beautifully balances the savory flavors—perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
What to Serve with Prawn Pad Thai?
Elevate your dining experience and create a satisfying meal by pairing your dish with delightful sides and accompaniments.
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Fresh Spring Rolls: Light and refreshing, these rolls filled with crisp veggies and herbs offer a wonderful contrast to the rich flavors of Pad Thai.
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Coconut Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, coconut rice complements the savory elements of your meal while adding a tropical flair.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred and smoky, a medley of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant provides textural variety and fresh taste.
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Thai Green Papaya Salad: Tangy and crunchy, this salad introduces zingy flavors that enhance the sweet-sour profile of the Pad Thai.
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Spicy Tom Yum Soup: This aromatic soup features a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory, making it a compelling starter to your meal.
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Lemonade or Thai Iced Tea: A sweet and refreshing drink to counterbalance the savory heat of the Pad Thai, bringing a delightful finish to your dinner.
Expert Tips for Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns
- Noodle Perfection: Soak rice noodles until just tender; over-soaking can lead to mushy noodles in your Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns.
- Flavor Balance: Make sure to taste and adjust the sauce’s sweetness or tanginess to suit your preference; the right balance is key.
- Cook Prawns Safely: Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking prawns; this ensures they cook evenly and maintain their juiciness.
- Egg Scrambling: Scramble the eggs until just set to avoid drying them out, allowing for a rich and creamy texture in your dish.
- Garnishing: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! They add freshness and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of your pad Thai.
Make Ahead Options
These Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who crave delicious homemade food! You can soak the rice noodles and mix the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. For even better results, you can also chop the vegetables and prepare the tofu ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the shallots, prawns, and dried shrimp, add the pre-soaked noodles and sauce, and finish by scrambling the eggs in the pan. This way, you’ll enjoy a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns
Fridge: Store leftover Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive moisture, or microwave until heated through.
Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns Recipe FAQs
What type of rice noodles should I use?
I recommend using thin dried rice noodles, as they provide the perfect texture for Pad Thai. Look for those labeled specifically for Pad Thai or stir-frying; they typically cook up beautifully and absorb the flavors of the dish well.
How should I store leftovers of my Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns?
Absolutely! Store leftover Pad Thai in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing to retain freshness.
Can I freeze my Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled Pad Thai in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its flavor for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to regain moisture.
What should I do if my noodles are too soft?
If your noodles become too soft, it’s helpful to balance that with crispier toppings. Consider adding more crushed peanuts or bean sprouts for texture. Next time, try soaking the noodles for a shorter time—just enough for them to become pliable, as over-soaking can lead to mushy noodles.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes, while this recipe is generally friendly for most diets, those with seafood allergies should avoid prawns and opt for tofu or vegetables instead. It’s also wise to check the fish sauce for gluten if you have a gluten intolerance, or substitute it with a gluten-free soy sauce for a suitable alternative.
Irresistible Authentic Pad Thai With Prawns in Just 40 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 10 minutes until tender, then drain well.
- Mix tamarind concentrate, palm sugar, fish sauce, and dark soy sauce in a bowl until combined.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the sliced shallot for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the prawns to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Stir in small dried shrimp, diced tofu, and drained noodles, tossing for a minute.
- Pour the prepared sauce over and toss gently, coating all noodles.
- Push the mixture to one side of the pan, add whisked eggs, and scramble for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine everything in the pan, add Chinese chives and bean shoots, and mix well.
- Serve hot, topped with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, chilli powder, and spring onion.