Meet the dish

Pad Thai

ผัดไทย · Pad Thai (also spelled Phad Thai)

Tamarind-tangy rice noodles, egg, and crisp accompaniments come together in Thailand's famous stir-fried noodle dish. Discover the balance behind each plate.

Illustrative image of egg Pad Thai with tamarind-glazed rice noodles, bean sprouts, garlic chives, crushed peanuts, and lime, without shrimp or tofu.

Flavor

Sweet, sour, and savory, with chili added to taste

Texture

Tender rice noodles, soft egg, and crunchy accompaniments

Spice

Varies by kitchen; ask about chili in the sauce and condiments

Region / style

Thai cuisine; enjoyed throughout Thailand

What's in it?

Flat rice noodlesEgg, in many versionsTamarind-based sauceFish sauce and sugar, depending on the recipeBean sprouts and garlic chivesRoasted peanuts and limeTofu, dried shrimp, or other proteins in some versions

Ingredients and preparation vary by restaurant. Ask the restaurant about dietary needs and allergens.

The story behind the dish

The balance behind the noodles

Pad Thai is a stir-fried rice noodle dish built around contrasting flavors. Tamarind brings tang, sugar adds sweetness, and savory seasoning rounds out the sauce.

Texture matters

The noodles should carry the sauce without becoming a heavy, soggy mass. Egg, bean sprouts, chives, and peanuts bring contrasting textures, while lime is a familiar accompaniment.

There is more than one version

Many recipes include tofu, dried shrimp, or an added protein, but they are not universal. The featured Mark Wiens video highlights a version described as having no shrimp or tofu. Comparing different kitchens is part of discovering Pad Thai.

Before you order

Ask which proteins and toppings are included, and whether chili is already mixed in. Taste the noodles before adding lime or other condiments. For vegetarian or other dietary requests, check the sauce, egg, dried shrimp, and toppings directly with the restaurant; the dish's appearance alone does not establish its ingredients.