🥜 Nuts & Seeds

Peanut Substitutes for Pad Thai: Authentic Alternatives

Find the best substitutes for peanuts in Pad Thai including cashews, almonds, and sesame seeds. Learn how to maintain authentic Thai flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions.

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Quick Answer

For Pad Thai, cashews are the best peanut substitute due to their similar texture and mild flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio and add them as a garnish in the last minute of cooking to maintain crunch.

Best Substitutes

Cashews

1:1

Creamy nuts that work perfectly in Pad Thai and other Thai dishes

Best for:

Pad ThaiThai curriesstir-friesspring rollsThai salads

Add as garnish in last minute, chop coarsely for best texture

Almonds

1:1

Tree nuts that provide good crunch and nutty flavor

Best for:

Pad ThaiThai stir-friessaladsgarnishestrail mix

Slice or chop for better integration, add at the end

Sesame Seeds

1/2 cup for 1 cup peanuts

Traditional Asian ingredient that adds authentic flavor

Best for:

Pad ThaiThai saladsgarnishessaucesrice dishes

Toast before using, sprinkle as garnish, adds authentic Asian flavor

Soy Nuts

1:1

Roasted soybeans with similar texture to peanuts

Best for:

Pad ThaiThai stir-friessaladssnackshigh-protein dishes

Higher protein content, similar texture, works well in savory dishes

Sunflower Seeds

1:1

Seeds that provide crunch and are allergy-friendly

Best for:

Pad ThaiThai saladsallergy-friendly optionsgarnishestrail mix

Smaller size, different flavor, good for nut allergies

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Add nuts in the last minute of cooking to maintain crunch
  • 💡Toast nuts lightly before adding to enhance flavor
  • 💡Chop nuts coarsely for better texture in Pad Thai
  • 💡Use tamari or soy sauce to add umami depth
  • 💡Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime for authentic presentation
  • 💡Consider using a mix of nuts and seeds for variety

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Find the best substitutes for peanuts in Pad Thai including cashews, almonds, sesame seeds, and soy nuts. Learn how to maintain authentic Thai flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions.