All About The Pad Thai Sauce

Like many home cooks, I’ve discovered that Pad Thai sauce isn’t just for Pad Thai – it’s a versatile ingredient that can transform ordinary dishes into something special. After experimenting with different ratios, I’ve found that the perfect balance comes from equal parts tamarind juice, palm sugar, and fish sauce. This basic recipe yields enough sauce for 4-5 servings, using 2-3 tablespoons per person.

Through my kitchen adventures, I’ve learned that adding a stick of cinnamon and a few star anise brings an unexpected depth to this traditional sauce. While some might consider adding heat with sriracha or chili paste, I’ve found that keeping the base sauce neutral allows for more flexibility in its applications, from marinades to stir-fries.

Yield: 4-5 Servings

Pad Thai Sauce

Print

A versatile Thai sauce recipe combining tamarind, palm sugar, and fish sauce in perfect harmony. This basic sauce yields 4-5 servings and can be customized with spices and heat levels for various applications beyond traditional Pad Thai.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup tamarind juice
• 1/4 cup palm sugar
• 1/4 cup fish sauce
• 1 stick cinnamon (optional)
• 2 star anise pods (optional)
• 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or chili paste (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine tamarind juice, palm sugar, and fish sauce in a small pot.
2. Add cinnamon stick and star anise if using.
3. Heat mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook until palm sugar completely dissolves.
5. Add sriracha or chili paste if desired.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
7. Remove from heat and let cool.
8. Remove cinnamon and star anise before storing.
9. Transfer to an airtight container.
   

Notes

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The sauce may separate during storage – simply shake or stir before using. For a vegetarian version, substitute fish sauce with a mixture of soy sauce and mushroom sauce.

Try using this versatile sauce as a marinade for chicken wings or fish, as a seasoning for fried rice, or as a dipping sauce. For a thicker consistency, simmer the sauce longer until it reduces to your desired thickness. Remember that the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 135Total Fat: 2.5gSodium: 550mgCarbohydrates: 27gFiber: 1.5gSugar: 17gProtein: 2.5g