Spicy Shrimp Pad Thai

1. Place noodles in a large bowl and cover with hot water. Set aside until noodles are softened, about 15 minutes. Drain and rinse thoroughly.

2. Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Cook and stir onion and garlic until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Combine rice wine vinegar, ketchup, fish sauce, chile sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl. Set aside.

4. Add shrimp to the wok. Cook and stir until pink, about 4 minutes. Add the ketchup mixture and stir. Move all ingredients to one side to clear a small space in the pan. Pour in eggs and cook without stirring until partially set, about 3 minutes.

5. Stir the drained noodles into the shrimp and egg mixture. Add 1/2 cup peanuts, 1/4 cup bean sprouts, and carrots. Cook and stir until noodles are heated through, about 2 minutes. Garnish with the remaining peanuts, bean sprouts, lime wedges, green onions, and cilantro.

Cook's Notes:

If using pre-cooked shrimp, don't overcook.

Extra chile sauce can also be added for those who like it really spicy!

Use the garnish ingredients as desired. Some people prefer all the listed ingredients, some people just prefer extra peanuts.