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Vegetarian Pad Thai


  • Author: Jennie Graham
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 30 minutes. whether you're hosting a family dinner or craving something healthy yet satisfying, this recipe offers incredible nutritional benefits while keeping costs under $15 for four servings 1x

Description

A delicious and authentic vegetarian pad thai recipe featuring rice noodles, crispy tofu, and fresh vegetables in a perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and savory sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz Rice noodles
  • 1 cup Firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 cup Bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup Carrots, julienned
  • ½ cup Green onions, chopped
  • 3 tbsp Tamarind paste
  • 3 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Lime juice, fresh
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 1 tsp Chili powder
  • ¼ cup Peanuts, chopped
  • 1 cup Bean sprouts

Instructions

  1. Prepare Noodles: Soak rice noodles in hot water for 15 minutes until soft but still firm. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Cook Tofu: Heat oil in large pan over medium-high heat. Add cubed tofu and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
  3. Add Vegetables: Add bell peppers and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
  4. Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and chili powder until smooth.
  5. Combine Everything: Pour sauce over vegetables and tofu. Add drained noodles and gently toss for 2 minutes until evenly coated.
  6. Final Touch: Stir in bean sprouts and chopped peanuts just before serving. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Press tofu between paper towels for 10 minutes before cubing to remove excess moisture and achieve better browning
  • Test noodle doneness by tasting – they should be tender but still have slight bite to prevent mushiness when stir-fried
  • Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook since the actual cooking process moves quickly and requires constant attention
  • Use high heat throughout cooking to achieve proper wok hei (breath of the wok) that gives authentic restaurant flavor
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 385 calories
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: vegetarian pad thai, thai noodles, vegetarian recipe, tofu pad thai, healthy asian food, quick dinner