Healthy & Special Diets > Allergy-Friendly Recipes > Shellfish-Free Recipes > Safe Cooking Practices for Shellfish Allergies

Shellfish-Free Pad Thai: A Flavorful and Safe Thai Dish

Indulge in the classic flavors of Pad Thai without any shellfish! This recipe uses chicken or tofu, rice noodles, and a delicious peanut sauce. Learn how to prepare this dish safely while avoiding cross-contamination for those with shellfish allergies.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
2
Ingredients
  • 200 g Rice noodles, flat
  • 200 g Chicken breast, thinly sliced or Firm Tofu
  • 1 cup Bean sprouts
  • 2 Eggs
  • 1/4 cup Peanuts, roasted, chopped
  • 2 Green onions, chopped
  • 4 Lime wedges, for serving
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • Pad Thai Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Tamarind paste
  • 2 tbsp Fish sauce (ensure it is truly fish sauce, many asian sauces have shellfish), or Soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes

Preparation

Before starting, ensure all your cooking surfaces, utensils, and cookware are thoroughly cleaned to avoid any potential shellfish contamination. This is especially important for individuals with shellfish allergies.

Noodle Preparation

Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are pliable but not fully cooked. Drain well and set aside.

Sauce Preparation

In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, fish sauce (or soy sauce), brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spiciness as needed. It is essential to ensure your fish sauce is truly fish sauce and has no shellfish or shellfish by-products

Cooking the Chicken or Tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken or tofu and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Scrambling the Eggs

Push the chicken or tofu to one side of the pan (or remove it temporarily). Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until cooked but still slightly soft.

Combining Ingredients

Add the soaked rice noodles to the pan along with the cooked chicken or tofu and the scrambled eggs. Pour the Pad Thai sauce over the noodles and stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.

Adding Bean Sprouts and Green Onions

Stir in the bean sprouts and chopped green onions. Cook for another minute or two, until the bean sprouts are slightly softened but still crunchy.

Serving

Serve the Pad Thai hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and lime wedges. Ensure separate serving utensils are used if serving alongside other dishes to avoid cross-contamination.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per serving

  • Calories: Approximately 400-500 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g
  • Fat: 15-20g
  • Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • This recipe is a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
  • Using tofu instead of chicken lowers the fat content.
  • Adjust the amount of brown sugar and oil to control the sugar and fat content.
  • Ensure all ingredients are sourced from reputable suppliers to avoid cross-contamination.

← Shellfish-Free Bouillabaisse with Fennel and Saffron Shellfish-Free Paella with Saffron and Smoked Paprika →

FAQ

  • How do I ensure my fish sauce is shellfish-free?

    Carefully read the ingredient label. Look for fish sauce that lists only fish (such as anchovies) as the main ingredient and explicitly states that it does not contain shellfish or shellfish derivatives. Avoid brands that are unclear about their ingredients or have a history of cross-contamination.
  • What can I use as a substitute for fish sauce if I am unsure about its shellfish-free status?

    You can use soy sauce as a substitute. While it won't replicate the exact flavor, it provides a similar umami taste. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Always ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free if needed.
  • Is there a brand of rice noodles that is guaranteed to be shellfish-free?

    Most brands of plain rice noodles are naturally shellfish-free. However, it's always best to check the label to ensure there's no mention of shellfish or cross-contamination during manufacturing. Look for brands that are certified allergy-friendly.