STIR-FRIED COCONUT NOODLES

Steps:

• If using rice noodles, soak them in very hot water to cover until ready to add to stir-fry in Step 4. If using linguine, bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it, and cook pasta until it is nearly but not quite done. Drain, and rinse in cold water.
• Meanwhile, place 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet or wok; turn heat to high. A minute later, add meat, and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon; set aside.
• Add another tablespoon of the oil to skillet, followed by bell pepper and eggplant. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until both are browned and tender, about 10 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon; combine with meat.
• Add remaining tablespoon of oil, followed immediately by the garlic and about 30 seconds later, the coconut milk. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring and scraping with a wooden spoon, for about a minute. Add drained noodles along with meat and vegetables, and cook until noodles absorb most of the coconut milk, about 3 minutes.
• Season with nam pla to taste, then add plenty of black pepper. Garnish with cilantro, and serve.