Pad Thai

A steaming plate of Pad Thai on a weathered wooden table in a bustling Thai street food market. The tangle of translucent rice noodles glistens with a light sheen of tamarind-infused sauce, dotted with vibrant red chili flakes. Plump pink shrimp curl around tender chicken pieces, nestled among crisp bean sprouts and julienned carrots. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds texture, while fresh cilantro and lime wedges provide pops of green. Golden-brown cubes of tofu peek out from beneath the noodles. To the side, a small mound of sugar and red chili flakes awaits customization. The dish is artfully arranged on a blue and white patterned ceramic plate, with chopsticks resting nearby. Warm, directional lighting from a nearby food stall casts a golden glow, accentuating the dish's inviting textures. Capture in a mouthwatering close-up food photography style, with a shallow depth of field that keeps the center in sharp focus while gently blurring the bustling market background.