Say goodbye to tamarind: discover the mouthwatering chicken pad thai recipe that doesn’t need it

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our delectable chicken pad thai recipe, crafted without tamarind. This iconic Thai dish is renowned for its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, and our recipe offers a unique twist while honoring the traditional essence.

Ingredients

Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon red chili paste
• 1/2 cup water

Noodles:

• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables:

• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

Make the Sauce:

1. Whisk all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.

Cook the Noodles:

1. Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes, or until soft.
2. Heat 1/2 cup water and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet.
3. Add the noodles and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a separate skillet.
3. Add the chicken and cook over medium heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Assemble the Pad Thai:

1. Add the sauce to the skillet with the noodles.
2. Stir in the cooked chicken, bean sprouts, green onions, peanuts, and cilantro.
3. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips

• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as tofu or bell peppers.
• Adjust the amount of chili paste to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Serve with a wedge of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

• Add a fried egg on top for a protein-packed meal.
• Top with crispy wonton strips for a crunchy texture.
• Incorporate other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or broccoli.

Health Benefits

• Chicken pad thai is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.
• It contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, iron, and zinc.
• The vegetables provide antioxidants and phytochemicals that support overall health.

Takeaways

Indulge in the delightful symphony of flavors with our chicken pad thai recipe without tamarind. This culinary masterpiece is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Experiment with different variations and customize it to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the tantalizing aroma and savor the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of noodles for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as egg noodles or soba noodles. However, the cooking time may vary.

Q: How do I store leftover pad thai?
A: Store leftover pad thai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze pad thai?
A: Yes, you can freeze pad thai for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.