which noodles in pad thai

For Pad Thai, you want flat rice noodles , often labeled as “rice sticks” or “pad thai noodles.”

Quick Scoop

• Use flat, dried rice noodles.
• Typical width: about 3–5 mm (sometimes called “thin” or “medium” rice sticks).
• Shape: flat, not round; opaque white when dry, turning soft and chewy when cooked.
• Avoid: egg noodles, wheat spaghetti, instant ramen, or glass/bean thread noodles if you want a classic Pad Thai texture.

What to Look for on the Package

• Names on the label:
  • “Pad Thai Rice Noodles”
  • “Rice Stick Noodles”
  • “Thai Rice Noodles”
• Ingredients: usually just rice flour and water.
• Form: dried, bundled or in a flat plastic pack of long strands.

If You Can’t Find “Pad Thai” Noodles

• Use any flat rice noodle close in width (like those for pho or generic “stir-fry rice noodles”).
• Thinner noodles = slightly lighter texture, thicker noodles = chewier and heavier.
• If you only have glass/bean thread noodles, the dish will still be tasty, but it won’t be a traditional Pad Thai.

Simple Example

• Go to the Asian aisle.
• Grab a pack that:
  • Says “rice noodles” or “rice sticks.”
  • Has flat, ribbon-like strands.
• Soak or boil according to the package, then stir-fry with your Pad Thai sauce, egg, protein, and bean sprouts.

TL;DR: Classic Pad Thai uses flat, medium-width dried rice stick noodles made from rice flour and water.