Pad Thai Recipe (Chicken, Tofu, or Shrimp)

Soak the rice noodles. Place rice noodles in a shallow pan and cover with boiling water, stirring occasionally (so they don’t stick together) until tender and al dente; drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking. They don’t have to be totally soft, just bendy and pliable.

the two eggs in a bowl with a fork, then add a generous 3-finger pinch of salt. Set aside.

whisk fish sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar and soy sauce (see notes) in a small bowl. Set aside.

slice chicken into very thin strips and season with salt and pepper. Crispy Tofu: Blot tofu with paper towels pressing down firmly. Cut tofu into ¾-inch cubes, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and, for extra crispy, dredge in a little cornstarch. Shrimp: season with salt and pepper.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large saucepan or wok, over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken, shrimp or tofu until cooked through. Set aside,

Gather your chopped shallots and garlic, whisked eggs, cooked noodles, cooked protein and Pad Thai Sauce around the stove. Heat a little more oil in the wok over medium heat, add shallot & garlic and stir fry 2-3 minutes. Scoot the shallot mixture to the side, add more oil, and pour in the eggs. Scramble and break them apart into little bits, and move them to the side. Add more oil, and the noodles, stirfry 2-3 minutes until noodles are soft and pliable and even a little crispy.

(turn hood on) stir everything together and cook 1-2 minute, then add the cooked protein and stirfry for a few more minutes. Just as you start to smell the sugar carmelizing, you are there! Squeeze with a little lime juice. Turn off heat.

Adjust salt, lime, heat and sweetness to your liking; add salt, or soy sauce for more depth if you like, a squeeze of lime juice, chili flakes, or a pinch of sugar to taste.

and roasted peanuts (or serve on the side) and sprinkle with chili flakes and scallions. Give one more toss and serve immediately. Divide among two plates.

with more bean sprouts, fresh scallions, cilantro or basil, chili flakes, lime wedges and roasted crushed peanuts. Or make this Peanut Chili Crunch!