The Pad Thai Pizza reimagines one of Thailand’s beloved street foods, combining the flavorful dance of stir-fried rice noodles, succulent shrimp, crunchy peanuts, and the iconic tamarind sauce atop a crispy pizza crust. This delectable creation offers an explosion of flavors, inviting you to savor the contrasts of sweet, savory, and a hint of sour all in one bite. Often found in trendy Thai fusion restaurants, dishes like this can range from $12 to $25 depending on the location. If you’re looking for a keto Pad Thai Pizza, this recipe beautifully adapts the traditional version to fit a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Origin and Inspiration
Originating from Thailand, Pad Thai is much more than just a dish; it’s a cultural emblem that has evolved over decades. Traditionally, it’s a stir-fried noodle dish that incorporates fish sauce, tamarind, and an array of toppings, including tofu, shrimp, and crushed peanuts. As for the Pad Thai Pizza, it serves as an innovative fusion, melding the beloved aspects of the original dish with the comforting familiarity of pizza.
In the creative culinary landscape, the keto Pad Thai Pizza embraces the rich, nutty flavors of traditional Pad Thai while cleverly substituting high-carb elements. Instead of typical pizza dough, a nutty almond flour base or cauliflower crust captures the essence of the original while ensuring it remains keto-friendly. Just imagine the sweet and tangy aroma of tamarind mingling with the nuttiness of the crust, evoking a sensory experience that lingers long after the last slice.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 450mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g
Keto Version
Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 160mg | Sodium: 780mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
- 1 tbsp tamarind paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Traditional Version
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked rice noodles
Keto Version
- 1 keto pizza crust (almond flour or cauliflower-based)
- 1 cup spiralized zucchini (as a noodle substitute)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Base:
-
Traditional Version:
Roll out your store-bought or homemade pizza dough to your desired thickness, then preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Keto Version:
Prepare your keto pizza crust according to the recipe instructions. If using a cauliflower crust, bake it slightly until golden before adding toppings.
2. Stir-fry the Shrimp and Noodles:
In a hot pan, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the cooked rice noodles for the traditional version or spiralized zucchini for the keto version, mixing in the tamarind paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and bean sprouts. Cook for another minute to meld the flavors together. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
- Both Versions:
Spread the stir-fried mixture evenly over your pizza base. Ensure even distribution of shrimp and noodles. Sprinkle crushed peanuts and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake the Pizza:
- Both Versions:
Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust around the edges.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Upon baking, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions and an extra drizzle of lime juice. Slice and enjoy your Pad Thai Pizza hot and tantalizing!
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: Enhance the experience with a glass of Thai iced tea for a sweet contrast or enjoy it alongside a light cucumber salad for crunch.
- Keto Pairing: Pair with a refreshing sparkling water with lime, keeping it light and low-carb, or a side of zucchini fries for a fulfilling yet healthy meal.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: This delightful pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Keto Version: Similarly, the keto Pad Thai Pizza can also be kept in the fridge for about 3 days.
- Freezing: Both pizza versions can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grill: Consider grilling your pizza on a pizza stone for a smoky, char-grilled flavor. Cook for 8-10 minutes over a medium-high flame for a beautifully crisp crust.
- Air Fryer: For quicker preparation, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to achieve a delightful crispiness while maintaining the toppings’ moisture.
Conclusion
The Pad Thai Pizza not only stands as a creative twist on a cherished dish but also encapsulates the versatility of flavors inherent in both Thai and Italian cuisines. Whether you opt for the traditional version with its comforting rice noodles or the keto adaptation with a creative twist, each bite is bursting with irresistible flavors—making it a captivating choice for any meal. Dive into this delightful fusion, and let the vibrant ingredients transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Thailand. Enjoy this masterpiece as part of a balanced meal or as an exciting snack to share with friends!