1/2 pound dried rice stick noodles (commonly called chantaboon,but any dried rice noodle works)
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped garlic
16 shrimp, peeled
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons fish sauce
4 teaspoons sugar
4 tablespoons coarsely chopped, dry-roasted peanuts
2 cups bean sprouts
8 slender green onions, sliced in 1-inch lengths
1 lime, quartered lengthwise
1. Soak rice noodles in warm water to cover for 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients and have them ready next to the stove, along with a small serving platter. When the noodles are very limp and white, drain and measure out 2 1/2 cups and keep these by the stove as well.
2. Heat a wok or large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the oil and swirl to coat the entire surface. When the oil is very hot, drop a piece of the garlic into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Add the remaining garlic and stir until golden, about 30 seconds. Add shrimp and toss until they turn pink and are opaque, about 1 minute (don't overcook or they'll become rubbery). Remove, cover, and set aside.
3. Add the egg to the pan and tilt the pan to spread it into a thin sheet. As soon as it begins to set and is opaque, scramble it to break it into small lumps. Remove from the pan and set aside with the shrimp.
4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, heat for 30 seconds, and add the softened noodles. Using a spatula, spread and pull the noodles into a thin layer covering the surface of the pan. Toss noodles several times until softened and curled and slightly golden-brown. Add the fish sauce and toss the noodles again so they are evenly seasoned. Add the sugar and peanuts, tossing the noodles a few more times.
5. Reserving a small handful for garnish, add the bean sprouts, green onions, and shrimp-egg mixture. Cook for 1 minute, turning often. Transfer the noodles to the serving platter and squeeze the juice of 2 lime wedges over the top. Garnish with remaining bean sprouts and lime wedges and serve at once..
