Pad Thai

Directions

1. 1
   Begin by soaking rice noodles in hot tap water.
2. 2
   Allow these to soak for 25-30 minutes until flexible but not expanded or mushy.
3. 3
   It is good to start this before you begin cutting the other ingredients as specified above.
4. 4
   By the time you are done cutting, the noodles should be ready.
5. 5
   Heat oil on high heat in a wok or large frying pan.
6. 6
   Maintain high heat throughout cooking.
7. 7
   Place shallot, garlic, and tofu in heated oil and stir until they begin to brown.
8. 8
   Add noodles (they should be flexible but not mushy by now) and continue to stir to keep from sticking.
9. 9
   Stir in tamarind paste, sugar, fish sauce and cayenne pepper.
10. 10
    Push the mixture to one side of the pan and add the eggs.
11. 11
    Scramble until nearly done, then stir into the noodle mixture.
12. 12
    Sample a noodle for taste and texture.
13. 13
    If too firm, add a bit of water and continue to cook until done.
14. 14
    Add any additional precooked vegetable or meat, if desired.
15. 15
    Stir in fresh bean sprouts, cilantro, green onions, cabbage, and carrots just before serving.
16. 16
    Serve with lime on the side and topped with crushed peanuts.