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The host stresses a vital point: "Please do not sub ingredients." Authenticity relies heavily on sourcing the proper components, many of which are readily available at local Asian markets or online, such as Amazon. Key ingredients include tamarind pulp, Thai palm sugar, fish sauce, Thai black soy sauce, and dried shrimp — essential for crafting genuine flavors.
The process begins with preparing the Pad Thai sauce, which forms the backbone of the dish. The tamarind pulp, despite its unappealing appearance, is rich in flavor. It is mixed with boiling water, then strained to extract a fragrant, tangy liquid. To this, sweet and savory elements are added: grated palm sugar, fish sauce, and black soy sauce, creating a dark, flavorful sauce that is both rich and complex.