Phad Thai or Thai Fried Noodles with Shrimp is definitely one of my all time favorite local food. I have tried it in different shops from side streets to cozy restaurants. I really don't eat it often but for sure AIT Conference Center is the only place where I could truly guarantee has the best phad thai to offer because of its authentic taste. They cook it just right and affordable too.
If you might wonder what it's made of, here's its recipe:
1 lb. thin Thai rice stick noodles
10 med. size shrimps, shelled and cleaned
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 c. bean sprouts (preferably fresh)
1 tbsp. nampla (fish sauce)
1/4 c. sugar
1 tbsp. ketchup
1 tbsp. minced garlic
1/2 c. vegetable oil
GARNISH:
1 tbsp. chopped spring onion
1 tbsp. chopped fresh coriander leaves
2 lemon wedges
1 tbsp. coarsely ground peanuts
Additional raw bean sprouts
Dash of chili powder or red pepper
Soak noodles in warm water for 15-20 minutes, drain. Place bean sprouts in cold water. In a large frying pan or wok, heat oil and saute garlic over medium to high heat until light brown. Add shrimp and stir-fry until well done. Add sugar, nampla or fish sauce, ketchup to wok, stirring together. Add eggs, then noodles, and stir-fry mixture until noodles turn orange. Drain bean sprouts and add to wok. Stir-fry another 2-3 minutes. Put on serving plate with raw bean sprouts arranged on side. Sprinkle top with ground peanuts, spring onion, coriander, chili powder and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve hot.