Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

TNT & Simply Picture-Perfect!, April 26, 2008
By sharonanne200

"Tried n True: Recommended – My family thoroughly enjoyed it; I plan on making it over & over again!
As For Ingredients: Buy all you can from a local Asian market (I’ve a Thai market nearby). You’ll pay 50% less (or better). Plus I found 3 lbs of fresh bean sprouts... for what 8-oz costs at the grocery store! However, I got my cilantro (aka: fresh coriander) and the rest from the grocer.
Rice Noodles: For HIGH ALTITUDES… Don’t (soak or) cook the rice noodles as long as either recipe or the package directs…. INSTEAD bring enough water to a boil, to cover the noodles; turn off heat and immerse rice noodles for 3-7 minutes (checking firmness frequently) until noodles are al dente (soft, but still firm to the bite). Immediately rinse with cold water for 30 seconds, draining well. Set aside, covered with plastic wrap or a wet towel.
Fish Sauce: I am now in love with fish sauce... who knew! Next time... I’ll buy a LARGER bottle.
Tamarind: The clerk showed me fresh tamarind; I must have looked like a dear in headlights. I said, “That’s tamarind PASTE”? He took me to a tamarind SOUP paste, which I also love now.
Chili Sauce: I tasted just a drop of (Rooster) Thai chili sauce… oh mama! The clerk suggested simply adding CHILI POWDER, to taste. I had tripled the recipe... just 1/2-teaspoon, to taste... was plenty. I’d leave the chili sauce, on the side, for those more daring folk.
Serving Suggestions: This recipe (as written) made GENEROUS servings... when served with other food i.e. steamed or stir-fried (frozen or fresh) green beans with sugar snap peas, broccoli and red peppers… following up with orange slices along side the veggies and main dish.
Garnishes: Serve with extra cilantro sprigs, crushed peanuts and the lime wedges. Then GARNISH it all off... with thinly sliced RADISHES for a touch of extra-irresistible color... Simply Picture-Perfect! -- Sharon Anne"

63 of 63 people found this review helpful.