Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

When I first stumbled across Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice in a bustling Bangkok street food market, I felt like I had discovered a treasure. The savory, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma wafted through the air, beckoning me closer. 

It was one of those moments where every bite tells a story, and every flavor turns a meal into an experience. Today, I’m excited to share this delightful dish with you. 

Along the way, I will break down what makes it unique, the ingredients needed, the preparation steps, tips, and much more. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to create your own Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice at home!

What is Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice?

Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice fuses the beloved elements of traditional Pad Thai with the comforting familiarity of fried rice.

Imagine stir-fried jasmine rice mixed with colorful veggies, protein of your choice, and aromatic seasonings that make a meal shine. The dish offers a beautiful combination of textures, from crisp vegetables to succulent prawns or chicken. 

Not merely a variation of fried rice, it captures the essence of Thai cuisine by harmonizing flavors in a way that speaks to both the palate and the heart.

Like other Thai dishes, Khao Pad reflects regional diversity. You’ll find different versions, depending on where you are in Thailand. Imagine the variation of spice levels or the types of proteins used! It’s a dish deeply embedded in rich culinary traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice

You might wonder why this dish deserves a place on your dining table. Picture this: fragrant warm rice, juicy prawns, and a hint of lime dancing with fresh herbs. It’s a fusion that transcends basic fried rice and delivers an unforgettable culinary journey.

1. Versatile: It’s adaptable. You can customize it according to your dietary preferences, whether you are a meat lover, vegetarian, or just favor seafood.

2. Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.

3. Nourishing: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s not just delicious; it’s also nutritious, good for the body, and the soul.

4. Flavorful: The unique combination of spices and sauces brings depth to every bite, making it far from boring.

5. Beautiful Presentation: You eat with your eyes first. Garnished with fresh herbs and lime, this dish shines on any plate.

Now, let’s dive into the specifics.

The Ingredients

This fried rice is simple yet robust, utilizing a variety of ingredients that work beautifully together. Gather the following:

• 250 grams of peeled and deveined prawns (or your choice of protein like chicken)
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 3-4 bird’s eye chilies, thinly sliced
• 2-3 spring onions, sliced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cups of cooked jasmine rice (or 2 servings of cooked long-grain rice)
• 2-3 tablespoons of oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Khao Pad Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

For Garnish:

• Cucumber slices
• Lime wedges
• Fresh coriander
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
• A dash of oyster sauce

With these ingredients, you’re set to create a magic montage of flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get that mouth watering Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice onto your table. Ready? Let’s go through the steps together.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

First things first, make sure your rice is pre-cooked and chilled. Day-old rice works best because it separates easily and gives you that delicious texture. If you’re cooking it fresh, allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add your prawns (or chicken) and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Toss in the minced garlic, chopped shallot, and sliced bird’s eye chilies. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. At this point, you’re likely miles away from feeling hungry!

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Now, it’s time to introduce the spring onions. Sauté them for about a minute, just enough to soften. The color and smell should be vibrant!

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. In the clear space, pour in your beaten eggs. Scramble them gently until set. Then, mix everything together. This makes the dish even heartier.

Step 6: Mix in Rice

Add the chilled, cooked jasmine rice to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any clumps and stir everything together.

Step 7: Add the Flavor

Now it’s time for the Khao Pad Sauce. Drizzle the fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine. Ensure every grain is coated in this savory goodness.

Step 8: Return the Protein

Add your pre-cooked prawns or chicken back into the wok. Stir gently to incorporate them into the rice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 9: Final Garnish

Drizzle with sesame oil and a dash of oyster sauce. Mix gently. Remove from heat, and get ready to plate.

Step 10: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with cucumber slices, lime wedges, and fresh coriander. Voila! You now have a vibrant plate of Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice to enjoy.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice turns out incredible:

• Use Day-Old Rice: It’s dryer, which prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the number of bird’s eye chilies. Enjoy the flavor without the burn!
• Don’t Skip the Garnish: Fresh herbs and lime brighten up the dish and balance out the richness from the sauces.
• Keep Everything Moving: Stir-frying is all about keeping the ingredients moving to prevent sticking and achieve even cooking.
• Prep Ahead: Chop your ingredients beforehand. This set-up streamlines your cooking process and keeps things organized.

Can I Store Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Leftovers can be a lifesaver. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use a microwave or a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.

What Can I Serve with Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice?

Looking to make it a full meal? Here are some suggestions:

• Spring Rolls: Crunchy and light, they complement the meal perfectly.
• Thai Salad: A mix of fresh vegetables dressed in a tangy lime dressing can brighten the plate.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Slightly spicy and smoky, they add an extra layer of flavor.
• Tom Yum Soup: Experience a warm, spicy contrast with this famous Thai soup.
• Steamed Veggies: Simple broccoli or bok choy can round out the meal nicely, keeping it healthy.

Variations

There’s always room to experiment! Here are five variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Khao Pad: Swap prawns or chicken for tofu and add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a hearty alternative.
• Pineapple Fried Rice: Add diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist. It pairs well with the savory elements.
• Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp, squid, and scallops for a seafood feast that elevates the dish even more.
• Coconut Fried Rice: Replace some water with coconut milk while cooking the rice for a creamy texture and flavor.
• Kimchi Fried Rice: Blend in some chopped kimchi for a fusion twist that introduces a delightful tang and spice.

Conclusion

Making Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice at home is not just about following a recipe; it’s an adventure in your kitchen. With vibrant colors, a rush of flavors, and the warmth of spices, it’s a dish that can bring your family around the table. 

Every stir of the pan reminds me of those street stalls in Thailand, where community and food intertwine seamlessly. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking!

Whether it’s the weekend or a quick weeknight dinner, this Khao Pad Thai Fried Rice recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand, one delicious bite at a time. 

Happy cooking!

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