### Authentic Pad Thai Noodles Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Guide
Pad Thai is one of Thailand's most iconic dishes, featuring stir-fried rice noodles tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce with protein like shrimp or chicken, peanuts, and bean sprouts. Here’s how you can make an authentic pad thai at home:
#### Ingredients:
- **150g** rice vermicelli (pad Thai noodles)
- **2 tbsp** fish sauce
- **2 tsp** palm sugar
- **1/4 tsp** tamarind paste
- **2 cloves** garlic, minced
- **3 spring onions**, chopped
- **1 tbsp** dark soy sauce
- **50g** roasted peanuts, crushed
- **1/4 cup** chicken or vegetable broth (optional)
- **6 oz** shrimp, peeled and deveined (or substitute with chicken, tofu, or bean sprouts)
- **2 tbsp** vegetable oil
#### Equipment:
- Wok or large skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife for chopping spring onions
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### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Prepare the Sauce:**
- In a small bowl, mix together fish sauce, palm sugar, tamarind paste, and dark soy sauce.
- Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. **Soak the Noodles:**
- Place rice vermicelli in a large bowl.
- Pour boiling water over the noodles and let them soak for 10-15 minutes or until soft but still slightly chewy.
- Drain the water, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
3. **Prepare the Protein:**
- If using shrimp, place them in a mixing bowl and pour the sauce mixture over them.
- Marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- For chicken or tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces and marinate as described above.
4. **Heat Wok and Cook Noodles:**
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the soaked rice noodles, tossing them with tongs until they are well coated with oil and start to soften slightly.
5. **Add Garlic and Protein:**
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add marinated shrimp or chicken (or tofu), and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the protein is cooked through.
6. **Stir in Sauce and Vegetables:**
- Pour the sauce mixture over the noodles and protein.
- Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that all ingredients are well coated with the sauce.
7. **Add Spring Onions and Peanuts:**
- Toss in chopped spring onions and crushed peanuts.
- Cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors together.
8. **Serve:**
- Transfer pad thai to individual serving plates or a large platter.
- Garnish with extra peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh Thai basil if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot.
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By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy a delicious, authentic pad thai that rivals any restaurant dish. Happy cooking!