Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai is a classic Thai street food dish packed with bold flavors, chewy noodles, and a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy goodness. This homemade version is easy to make and tastes just like your favorite takeout—maybe even better! Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests, this Pad Thai recipe will satisfy your spicy food cravings.
Origin of the Recipe:
Pad Thai originated in Thailand in the 1930s and quickly became a national dish due to its delicious combination of flavors. Traditionally made with rice noodles, tamarind paste, fish sauce, and shrimp or tofu, this dish was created as part of a government campaign to promote Thai identity and reduce rice consumption during wartime. Today, it’s a global favorite, with many variations, including this spicy shrimp version for heat lovers!
What We Love About This Recipe:
- Bold & Flavorful: A perfect mix of spicy, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Restaurant-Style at Home: No need for takeout when you can make it fresh at home!
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or beef.
Also Read : A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Clean Eating and Its 9 Benefits
Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe
Course: Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
3 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp tamarind paste (or 1 tbsp lime juice as a substitute)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar or palm sugar
1 tbsp Sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
8 oz (225g) rice noodles
12-15 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red chili, sliced (optional for extra heat)
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup bean sprouts
2 green onions, chopped
¼ cup crushed peanuts
Lime wedges for serving
Directions
- Prepare the Noodles: Soak rice noodles in warm water for 15-20 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Sriracha. Stir well and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add 1 tbsp oil, garlic, onion, and sliced chili. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Scramble the Egg: Push the aromatics to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten egg. Let it cook slightly, then scramble and mix with the other ingredients.
- Add the Noodles & Sauce: Add drained noodles and pour the sauce over them. Toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly.
- Final Touches: Add shrimp, bean sprouts, and green onions. Toss everything for another 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with crushed peanuts and lime wedges. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai!
Notes
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap shrimp for tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
- Adjust the Heat: Add more Sriracha or fresh chilies if you love extra spice.
