Pad Thai is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the world. Known for its unique combination of flavors, it is a staple in Thai cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting Thailand.
Core Facts
Pad Thai is a stir-fried rice noodle dish that is commonly served as street food in Thailand. It is made with rice noodles, shrimp, peanuts, scrambled egg, sugar, and bean sprouts. The dish is typically flavored with tamarind
juice, fish sauce, and sometimes red chili pepper and palm sugar.
Notable Details
The dish was originally known as 'kuai tiao pad Thai', a name that reflects its Chinese influences. The word 'kuai tiao' is a Thai borrowing of
the Teochew word for a type of thick Chinese rice noodle. Over time, the name was shortened to 'pad Thai'.
Comparisons and Contrasts
Pad Thai is often compared to other noodle dishes from Southeast Asia, such as
Vietnam's 'hủ tiếu' and Malaysia's 'kway teow'. While these dishes share some similarities, such as the use of rice noodles, Pad Thai is distinct in its use of tamarind juice and fish sauce, which give it a unique flavor profile.
Key Data Points
Pad Thai is typically served with lime wedges and crushed roasted peanuts, which add a fresh and crunchy element to the dish. It may also contain other vegetables like bean sprouts, garlic chives, preserved
radish, and raw banana flowers. The dish can be customized with various proteins, including fresh shrimp, crab, squid, or other meats, making it a versatile and adaptable meal.
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