Great Pad Thai is dry and light bodied, with a fresh,
complex, balanced flavor. I've never actually seen
the red, oily pad thai in Thailand that is common in
many western Thai restaurants. 

The ingredients listed below can be somewhat
intimidating but many are optional. If you would like
to make authentic Pad Thai, just like in Thailand, use
all the ingredients. 

Pad Thai is another perfect vegetarian dish, just omit
shrimp and substitute soy sauce for fish sauce.
Add more tofu if you like.

Servings :

1/2 lime 
1 egg 
4 teaspoons fish sauce 
3 cloves garlic, minced 
1/2 teaspoon ground dried chili pepper 
ground pepper 
1 shallot, minced 
2 tablespoon sugar 
2 tablespoon tamarind 
1/2 package Thai rice noodles 
2 tablespoon vegetable oil 
1/2-1/4 lb shrimp Optional 
1/2 banana flower Optional 
1/3 cup tofu - extra firm Optional 
1-1/2 cup Chinese chives - green Optional 
2 tablespoons peanuts Optional 
1-1/3 cup bean sprouts Optional 
1 tablespoon preserved turnip Optional 

Tips and substitutions
By far, the trickiest part is the soaked noodles. Noodles should be somewhat flexible and solid, not completely expanded and soft. When in doubt, undersoak. You can always add more water in the pan, but you can't take it out. 

Shrimp can be substituted or omitted. 

In this recipe, pre-ground pepper, particularly pre-ground white pepper is better than fresh ground pepper. For kids, omit the gound dried chilli pepper. 

Tamarind adds some flavor and acidity, but you can substitute white vinegar. 

The type of extra firm tofu called for this recipe can be found at most oriental groceries in a plastic bag, not in water. Some might be brown from soy sauce, but some white ones are also available. Pick whatever you like. 

If you decided to include banana flower, cut lengthwise into sections (like orange sections). Rub any open cut with lime or lemon juice to prevent it from turning dark. 

The original Pad Thai recipe calls for crushed roasted peanuts. Many people in Thailand avoid eating peanuts because of its link to cancer.