Pad Thai

By: Fatemeh Shahgaldi

- 1 cup rice noodles- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil- 1 onion, thinly sliced- 2 cloves garlic, minced- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste- 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)- 1 tablespoon fish sauce- 1 tablespoon soy sauce- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper- Salt to taste- Peanuts and lime wedges for garnish

1. *Cook the rice noodles*: Soak the noodles in hot water for about 5-7 minutes, or according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.2. *Heat oil in a wok*: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.3. *Stir-fry the onion and garlic*: Add the sliced onion and minced garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.4. *Add mixed vegetables*: Add the mixed vegetables and cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.5. *Add the cooked noodles*: Add the cooked rice noodles and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.6. *Add the sauce*: In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper. Pour the sauce into the wok and stir-fry everything together for about 1-2 minutes.7. *Season with salt*: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.8. *Garnish with peanuts and lime*: Transfer the Pad Thai to a serving platter and garnish with peanuts and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.9. *Serve and enjoy*: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Pad Thai!