Let’s be real for a minute here, the tracks we travel throughout this great country are only part of the appeal of touring. It’s the stunning landscapes, the time with good mates, those once-in-a-lifetime sunsets, and near the top of the list has to be good eats. Yep, campfire cooking is the perfect opportunity for 4X4ers to push their culinary skills to the limit. Sam West from Club 4×4 Insurance came along on a recent filming run, and while he’s a top bloke to have a yarn with, and even more of a whiz on the insurance front, when that man dons an apron he means business. Here’s the epic Pad Thai he knocked together for a slice of gourmet living in a million-star hotel.
Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavour
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is built around easy-to-find ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavour:
– Rice noodles, the backbone of this dish, provide a tender and satisfying texture.
– Aromatic base ingredients: chilli (to taste), 4 cloves of garlic, and a tablespoon of finely chopped lemongrass, setting the stage for an unforgettable flavour profile.
– Finely chopped shallots and coriander, adding a fresh and vibrant touch.
– One chicken breast, sliced into thin strips, offering lean protein to fuel your adventures.
– A jar of Pad Thai sauce for that authentic Thai flavour without the hassle of preparing it from scratch.
– Sesame oil, crushed peanuts, and fresh lime, to garnish and elevate the dish to new heights.
Step 1: Preparing the Noodles
Our culinary journey begins with preparing the rice noodles. Start by bringing a pot of water to the boil. Once boiling, immerse the noodles in the water for 6-8 minutes, or until they reach a tender consistency. It’s crucial not to overcook the noodles, too long and you’ll end up with a mushy texture. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside. This step can be done using a portable stove for simplicity.
Step 2: Crafting the Aromatic Base
Next, prepare the aromatic base that will infuse the dish with its distinctive flavours. In a pan, combine chilli (adjusted to your preferred heat level), crushed garlic, and finely chopped lemongrass. Sauté these ingredients in sesame oil until they release their fragrance, stirring the senses and preparing them for the addition of the chicken.
Step 3: Adding the Protein
Slice one chicken breast into thin strips. Add these to the pan and cook until they’re lightly coloured but not fully cooked through. This ensures the chicken will be perfectly tender once the dish is completed. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; for those who prefer a vegetarian option, the chicken can be easily substituted with tofu or additional vegetables.
Step 4: Combining the Elements
Introduce a jar of Pad Thai sauce to the pan. These sauces are readily available at local Asian grocery stores or the Asian food section of regular supermarkets, making it a convenient option for those on the road. Add half of the chopped shallots and coriander to the mix, combining all the ingredients and bringing the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Incorporating the Noodles
Once the sauce is simmering, incorporate the pre-soaked rice noodles. Heat the entire mixture again, ensuring the noodles are fully coated in the sauce and the flavours meld together harmoniously. This step transforms the separate components into a cohesive, mouth-watering dish.
Step 6: Serving with Style
To serve, use tongs to twist the noodles into a bowl, creating an appealing presentation. Generously garnish with the remaining shallots and coriander. Add crushed peanuts for a crunchy contrast and finish with a good squeeze of fresh lime to bring out the vibrant flavours of the dish.
The Perfect Outdoor Meal
Whether you’re taking a break on a scenic overlook or fuelling up at camp after a day of tracks, this dish promises to be a highlight of your adventure. Cooking outdoors doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or quality, and Sam’s Pad Thai is a testament to that. So next time you’re heading past the black stump, consider adding a little restaurant-quality Thai to your camping experience.
