Pad Thai

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A spicy Thai noodle dish that is authentically seasoned with fish sauce, but soy sauce is an acceptable substitute.

2 quarts water
3/4 lb. mung bean sprouts
6 oz. rice noodles (1/4 inch wide)

SAUCE

3 tbs. fresh lime juice
3 tbs. catsup
1 tbs. brown sugar
1/4 cup fish sauce, or soy sauce
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3 tbs. peanut oil or vegetable oil
3-4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1 tbs. minced fresh chile, or 1 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups grated carrots
4 eggs, lightly beaten with a pinch of salt
2/3 cup chopped peanuts
6-8 scallions, chopped (about 1 cup)

In a covered pot, bring the water to a rolling boil. Blanch the mung bean sprouts by placing them in a strainer or small colander and dipping it into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Set aside to drain well. When the water returns to a boil, stir in the rice noodles and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until tender but firm. Drain the cooked noodles, rinse them under cool water, and set them aside to drain well. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together the sauce ingredients.

Prepare the remaining ingredients and have them near at hand before you begin to stir-fry. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet. Add the garlic and chile, swirl them in the oil for a moment, and stir in the grated carrots. Stir-fry for 1 minute. Push the carrots to the sides to make a hollow in the center. Pour the beaten eggs into the center and quickly scramble them. When the eggs have just set, pour in the sauce mixture and stir everything together. Add the drained rice noodles and mung sprouts, and toss to distribute evenly. Stir in the peanuts and scallions, and serve at once.

Total time: 40 minutes.
Yield: 4 servings

Per 8-oz. serving: 296 calories, 11.3g protein, 15g fat, 31g carbohydrate, 712 mg sodium, 142 mg cholesterol.

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