Description
Easy Pad Thai Noodles
Ingredients
8 oz rice noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup bean sprouts
3 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 lime, cut into wedges
Optional: Soft-boiled egg for topping
Directions
Cook noodles: Soak or cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook eggs: Push garlic to the side of the pan and pour in beaten eggs. Scramble until just set.
Mix sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
Combine noodles: Add cooked noodles to the pan along with the sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
Add veggies: Stir in bean sprouts, green onions, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Top and serve: Plate noodles and garnish with a soft-boiled egg, extra green onions, and lime wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Noodles: Place 8 oz of rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with very hot (not boiling) water. Let soak for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Cook the Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Push the garlic to the side. Pour 2 beaten eggs into the empty space. Let them set for 10 seconds, then scramble until just cooked.
5. Combine Everything: Add the drained noodles and the prepared sauce to the pan. Use tongs to toss vigorously for 1-2 minutes, coating the noodles evenly.
6. Finish with Veggies: Add 1 cup bean sprouts and 3 chopped green onions. Toss for another 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are slightly wilted but still crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pad Thai immediately while hot. Plate the noodles and garnish with a soft-boiled egg (if using), extra chopped green onions, and fresh lime wedges for squeezing. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple cucumber salad or fresh spring rolls. Crushed peanuts, cilantro, and extra red pepper flakes make excellent table-side toppings for customization.
How-to Summary
Soak rice noodles until al dente. Whisk the savory-sweet sauce. Sauté garlic, scramble eggs in the same pan, then toss in noodles and sauce. Finish by stirring in fresh bean sprouts and green onions. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Ensure your soy sauce is a certified gluten-free tamari. All other core ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What can I use instead of fish sauce?
For a vegetarian version, use soy sauce or tamari mixed with a pinch of seaweed powder for umami. Liquid aminos are another good substitute.
Why are my noodles sticky or mushy?
This is usually from overcooking. Soak noodles only until pliable, and cook them quickly in the hot pan. They will soften further when mixed with the sauce.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely. Add thinly sliced chicken, shrimp, or firm tofu at the garlic stage. Cook through before adding the eggs.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Microwaving can make noodles gummy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-soaking the noodles, which leads to a mushy final texture.
- Adding the sauce too late or not tossing vigorously enough, resulting in clumpy, unevenly flavored noodles.
- Overcooking the bean sprouts, which should remain crisp for texture contrast.
- Using high heat when cooking the garlic, which can cause it to burn and turn bitter.
- Not having all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, as the process moves quickly.
Conclusion
This Easy Pad Thai recipe demystifies a classic takeout favorite, proving you can create a flavorful, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. By mastering the simple sauce and following the key steps to avoid common pitfalls, you’ll achieve perfectly coated, slightly chewy noodles with a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. It’s a versatile base perfect for customizing with your favorite proteins and toppings, guaranteeing a delicious dinner any night of the week.