I found this link below, which suggests using the TeX Live Installerhttps://tex.stackexchange.com/questions/1092/how-to-install-vanilla-texlive-on-debian-or-u buntu?noredirect=1&lq=1
This is my preferred method. You can choose a completely custom install or use the pre-defined packages of varying sizes (small, medium, full etc.). I usually use the medium or full, but any package is just a 'tlmgr install' away (incl. pdftex).
Cheers, -- Adrian Bradd
