Discover the Secret Behind the Popularity of Pad Thai with Chicken or Shrimp

Pad Thai is one of the most popular and well-known Thai dishes worldwide. This dish has become a staple in many households due to its delicious taste, ease of preparation, and versatility. Whether you prefer chicken or shrimp, Pad Thai is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed anytime. In this blog post, we will discuss why Pad Thai with chicken or shrimp is so popular, what to serve it with, and why you should give this delicious dish a try.

Pad Thai is a dish that originated in Thailand and has since become popular all over the world. It is a stir-fried rice noodle dish that is typically made with chicken or shrimp, but can also be made with tofu or vegetables. The reason why Pad Thai with chicken or shrimp is so popular is because of the combination of flavors and textures. The tender chicken or shrimp pairs perfectly with the chewy rice noodles, crunchy bean sprouts, and peanuts, and the tangy and slightly sweet sauce brings it all together.

When it comes to serving Pad Thai, there are many options to choose from. Traditionally, it is served with a side of lime wedges, bean sprouts, and chopped peanuts. These toppings add a refreshing burst of flavor and texture to the dish. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. For a complete meal, you can serve Pad Thai with a side of steamed vegetables or a small salad. A light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of stir-fried green beans would be a perfect accompaniment to this dish.

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Pad Thai

Course Fish and Shellfish, Poultry

Author N. J. Sorensen, RDN

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken cut into strips or shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 10 oz Thai rice noodles
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 red pepper sliced
• 1 cup sliced carrot
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 5 green onions sliced
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 3 eggs beaten
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/3 cup cilantro chopped
• Red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions

• Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, and fish sauce. Set aside.
• Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or shrimp and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• Add the red pepper, carrot, garlic, and green onions to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
• Add the bean sprouts to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until they start to wilt.
• Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, then mix them in with the vegetables.
• Add the cooked rice noodles and the sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce.
• Add the cooked chicken or shrimp back to the skillet and toss to combine.
• Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and red pepper flakes to taste.
• Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Pad Thai!

Pad Thai with chicken or shrimp is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal. Chicken and shrimp are both excellent sources of protein, while the rice noodles provide complex carbohydrates. The dish is also loaded with vegetables such as carrots, red pepper, and bean sprouts, which are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. The sauce is made with ingredients such as soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lime juice, which are all beneficial for your health.

In conclusion, Pad Thai with chicken or shrimp is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its popularity is due to its unique combination of flavors and textures, as well as its ease of preparation. When serving Pad Thai, there are many options to choose from, including lime wedges, bean sprouts, and peanuts. Additionally, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a great option for anyone who wants to eat a healthy and satisfying meal. If you haven’t tried Pad Thai yet, we highly recommend that you give it a try and see why it’s such a beloved dish all over the world.