Shrimp Pad Thai is the ultimate fusion of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy—all wrapped around silky rice noodles and juicy shrimp. It’s fast, fresh, and every bite is a joyful mix of tender shrimp, crunchy peanuts, zesty lime, and perfectly stir-fried noodles.
This version brings authentic Thai street food flavor straight to your home kitchen. The sauce is balanced, the shrimp cook in minutes, and the result? A vibrant, flavorful plate you’ll want to make again and again.
⏱ Prep Time 15 minutes | 🔥 Cook Time 15 minutes | 🍽 Servings 2–3 | 🌱 Difficulty Level Moderate | 📦 Storage Tips Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water in a skillet.
Ingredients List
For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or palm sugar)
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
For the noodles:
- 150g (5 oz) medium-width dried rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 200g (7 oz) raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup crushed roasted peanuts
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
- Sliced red chili and extra peanuts (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Soak rice noodles in hot water for 20–30 minutes until flexible but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
- Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until pink and just cooked through. Push shrimp to the side of the pan.
- Pour beaten egg into the center and scramble gently until just set.
- Add soaked noodles and pour sauce over everything. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Add bean sprouts and green onions. Stir-fry briefly for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, topped with crushed peanuts, sliced red chili, and a wedge of lime.
Recipe Notes / Tips
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp—just make sure they’re deveined and pat-dried before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the noodles in the water—they’ll soften more in the pan.
- Add Thai basil or cilantro if you want an herbal twist.
Nutrition Info (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 470
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 32g
- Sugar: 10g
FAQs
- Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
- A: You can, but add them near the end to avoid overcooking.
- Q: Is tamarind necessary?
- A: Yes, for authentic tang. But in a pinch, mix lime juice and a dash of vinegar.
- Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
- A: Swap shrimp for tofu and fish sauce for soy sauce or a vegan alternative.
Twirled those noodles to perfection? Snap your shrimp-studded stir-fry and tag it with #the_food_pedia on Instagram! 🍤🍜✨





