Thai fried noodles (1)

3 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
½poundsFresh rice noodles cut into 1/2-inch slices, OR- flat dried rice noodles
1cupFresh bean sprouts
cupOil
1tablespoonMinced garlic
4tablespoonsMinced shallots
2teaspoonsShrimp paste (kapee)
1tablespoonChopped dried shrimp (opt.)
10mediumsShrimp, shelled, deveined OR- substitute pork
3tablespoonsFish sauce (nam pla)
1tablespoonRice vinegar
2tablespoonsLight brown sugar
2tablespoonsTomato ketchup TO
1teaspoonChili powder (optional)
2Eggs; lightly beaten
cupCoarsely ground peanuts (unsalted)
½teaspoonDried red chili flakes (opt)
2Green onions; finely sliced
2tablespoonsChopped coriander leaves
2Limes; cut into wedges
1smallCucumber; sliced

Directions

GARNISHES

If using dried rice noodles, soak in hot water for 20 minutes before cooking. Drain. In 4 quarts boiling water, cook fresh rice noodles 2 to 3 minutes or until just tender to the bite, al dente. Drain.

Rinse. Drain for 30 minutes or until dry. In boiling water, blanch the bean sprouts for 30 seconds. Refresh under cold water. Drain.

Heat oil. Fry garlic and shallots until golden. Add the shrimp paste and dried shrimp. Stir. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until done. Add the fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and chili powder.

Stir until sugar dissolves. Add the beaten eggs and let them set slightly. Then stir to scramble. Add the noodles and toss for about 2 minutes. Place the Pad Thai on a platter. Sprinkle the noodles with peanuts, chili flakes, green onions, and coriander. Arrange lime wedges around the edge of the platter. Serve with a side dish of fresh bean sprouts and cucumbers.

(Yield: 3-4 serving)

Source: The Southeast Asia Cookbook, by Ruth Law From: stigle@... (Sue Stigleman)