Tofu Pad Thai is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite. Stir-fried rice noodles are tossed with crisp tofu, crunchy peanuts, fresh vegetables, and a delicious tamarind sauce, making it a delicious plant-based take on this classic Thai street food. With plenty of lime, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice, this dish is as refreshing as it is satisfying. Perfect for weeknights or a quick lunch, Tofu Pad Thai is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and bursting with authentic flavors.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp tamarind paste (or 2 tbsp lime juice as a substitute)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and chili paste until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the garlic, bean sprouts, and bell pepper, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles, tofu, green onions, and sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until warmed through and coated with sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tofu Pad Thai is best enjoyed fresh with a squeeze of lime and extra chili paste if you like it spicy! This recipe is flexible—feel free to add extra veggies like carrots, snap peas, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
