Start by cooking your rice noodles according to package instructions. Generally, they'll need to soak in hot water for about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce or a plant-based alternative, soy sauce, brown sugar, sambal oelek, and vinegar. This combination brings all the flavors together and gives the noodles a delightful glaze.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pan or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions. Stir them for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Toss in the carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir-fry until they're tender but not mushy. This should take around 4–5 minutes. You want them to retain that satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce you prepared earlier over the noodles. Toss everything together. Ensure the noodles are evenly coated. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Beat in the Egg
Push all the noodles to one side of the pan. Add the beaten egg to the empty space and scramble it until cooked through. Then mix it with the noodles. The egg adds protein and richness to the dish.
Step 7: Finish with Herbs and Peanuts
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh basil and cilantro, along with the roasted peanuts. Give it a final toss.
Notes
Right Noodle Choice: Use quality rice noodles. Check the packaging for the best results.
Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer it milder, reduce the sambal oelek.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables. The quality affects the dish’s flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Maintain the crunch by not overcooking the veggies.
Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps all the flavors meld beautifully.