This Vegan Pad Thai recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Packed with colorful vegetables and tofu, this vegan version of the classic Thai favorite is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Appliances and Special Utensils
Wok or large skillet
Knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tongs
Ingredients
8 oz rice noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup bean sprouts
3 green onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Pad Thai Sauce:
1/4 cup tamarind paste
3 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Prepare Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Cook Tofu: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tofu from the wok and set aside.
Cook Vegetables: In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add the red bell pepper, carrot, and green onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine Ingredients: Push the vegetables to one side of the wok. Add the cooked rice noodles and the prepared sauce to the other side. Toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are well coated with the sauce.
Add Tofu and Sprouts: Gently fold in the cooked tofu and bean sprouts. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
Serve: Divide the Vegan Pad Thai among serving plates. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy Vegan Pad Thai!