Vegetarian Pad Thai with Tofu

Vegetarian Pad Thai with Tofu is a vibrant, flavorful twist on the classic Thai street food favorite. Traditionally made with shrimp or chicken, this vegetarian version is packed with protein-rich tofu, fresh vegetables, and wide rice noodles tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet tamarind sauce.

Garnished with crunchy peanuts, fresh lime, and cilantro, every bite bursts with texture and flavor. This dish is both satisfying and wholesome, offering a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes. Quick to prepare yet impressive enough for entertaining, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Thai flavors without meat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s bright, flavorful, and completely satisfying. The combination of chewy noodles, crispy tofu, crunchy peanuts, and fresh vegetables makes every bite exciting. Plus, it’s an easy way to enjoy authentic Thai street food at home with simple ingredients.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic Thai flavor in a vegetarian version
• Balanced protein from tofu
• Quick and easy weeknight meal
• Colorful, healthy, and visually appealing
• Gluten-free option available using rice noodles and tamari

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Thai
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (approx.): 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 14 oz firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cubed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, chopped

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp tamarind paste (or substitute with 2 tbsp lime juice + 1 tbsp soy sauce)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts
• Lime wedges
• Fresh cilantro
• Extra bean sprouts

Cooking Directions (Quick Method)

1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Fry tofu until golden and crispy.
3. Sauté garlic and vegetables.
4. Add noodles and sauce; toss everything together.
5. Garnish with peanuts, lime, and cilantro.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Noodles: Soak or cook rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Tofu: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add cubed tofu and fry until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add remaining oil and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots, bell pepper, and green onions. Cook 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and chili flakes.
6. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add cooked noodles and tofu to the skillet. Pour sauce over and toss well to coat. Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.
7. Add Bean Sprouts: Toss in bean sprouts just before serving for crunch.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

How to Serve

Serve hot with extra lime wedges and bean sprouts on the side. It pairs well with a simple cucumber salad or a light Asian-inspired soup for a full meal.

Recipe Tips

• Press tofu well to remove excess moisture for crispier results
• Do not overcook rice noodles; they should remain slightly chewy
• Taste sauce and adjust sweetness, saltiness, or acidity to preference
• Add vegetables of choice like snow peas, zucchini, or broccoli for variety

Variations

1. Spicy Vegetarian Pad Thai

Add more chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce.

2. Peanut Butter Pad Thai

Add 1–2 tbsp natural peanut butter to the sauce for creaminess.

3. Gluten-Free Version

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure rice noodles are gluten-free.

4. Protein Boost

Add edamame, tempeh, or extra tofu for additional protein.

5. Vegan Pad Thai

Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar if not using refined sugar.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as rice noodles may become mushy.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or tongs
• Small bowl for sauce

Conclusion

Vegetarian Pad Thai with Tofu is a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Thai street food while being vegetarian-friendly. With its tangy-sweet sauce, crisp vegetables, and protein-packed tofu, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. Easy to make yet impressively delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.