What To Know
- In a bowl, combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.
- Add a dash of chili powder or Sriracha to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Heat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent dryness.
Pad Thai, a beloved Thai street food, is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. With its tender chicken, vibrant noodles, and irresistible peanut sauce, it’s a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes taste buds. If you’re eager to recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen, follow our comprehensive guide to master the art of Chicken Pad Thai with Peanut Sauce.
Ingredients:
- Noodles: 8 ounces flat rice noodles
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- Sauce:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- Other:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Soak the Noodles: Submerge the rice noodles in warm water for 10-15 minutes, or until softened.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and water until smooth.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add the Noodles: Drain the noodles and add them to the skillet. Toss to coat them with the chicken.
6. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the bean sprouts, green onions, carrots, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crunchy.
7. Pour in the Sauce: Add the prepared peanut sauce to the skillet. Stir until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated.
8. Add the Egg: Push the noodles to one side of the skillet and pour in the beaten egg. Allow it to cook until set, then break it up and mix it into the noodles.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped peanuts. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges.
Tips for Perfect Pad Thai:
- Use Authentic Ingredients: For optimal flavor, seek out authentic ingredients like flat rice noodles and peanut butter made from roasted peanuts.
- Control the Heat: Pad Thai requires high heat for optimal wok cooking. Ensure your skillet or wok is sufficiently heated before adding the ingredients.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to taste the sauce and noodles as you cook. Adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
- Serve Fresh: Pad Thai is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. Leftovers may be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but the noodles may become slightly less tender.
Variations:
- Shrimp Pad Thai: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Pad Thai: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like tofu, mushrooms, or edamame.
- Spicy Pad Thai: Add a dash of chili powder or Sriracha to the sauce for a touch of heat.
Health Benefits of Pad Thai:
- Protein-Rich: Chicken and peanuts provide ample protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Fiber-Filled: Rice noodles and vegetables contribute dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
- Antioxidant-Packed: Peanuts and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage.
FAQs:
- What can I substitute for peanut butter in Pad Thai?
- Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunbutter are suitable alternatives.
- How do I make Pad Thai vegan?
- Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and omit the fish sauce from the sauce.
- Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium soy sauce?
- Yes, but be mindful of the saltiness and adjust the amount accordingly.
- How do I store leftover Pad Thai?
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- What is the best way to reheat Pad Thai?
- Heat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent dryness.
