Vegan Pad Thai with Tofu and Vegetables

Rice noodles, tofu and vegetables are tossed in a vegan tamarind-lime sauce.

Total 40 minMakes 3 to 4 servings
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This vegan Pad Thai tosses rice noodles, golden tofu, broccoli, carrots and bean sprouts with a tangy tamarind-lime sauce. The source calls for lentil sprouts and very little tamarind, so this version uses crisp bean sprouts and a more noticeable measured tamarind flavor. Prepare the sauce before heating the wok and keep the vegetables slightly crisp. Soak or cook rice noodles according to package directions until just pliable; drain and rinse briefly. Whisk soy sauce, tamarind, vinegar, maple syrup, lime juice and chilli paste in a small bowl. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet; cook tofu in one layer until golden on several sides, then transfer to a plate.

Recipe card

Vegan Pad Thai with Tofu and Vegetables

Prep 20 minCook 20 minTotal 40 minYield 3 to 4 servings
Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Knife, cutting board, measuring tools and suitable pot, skillet or oven

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare noodles

    Soak or cook rice noodles according to package directions until just pliable; drain and rinse briefly.

  2. Mix sauce

    Whisk soy sauce, tamarind, vinegar, maple syrup, lime juice and chilli paste in a small bowl.

  3. Brown tofu

    Heat oil in a wok or large skillet; cook tofu in one layer until golden on several sides, then transfer to a plate.

  4. Stir-fry vegetables

    Cook garlic 30 seconds; add broccoli and carrot with 2 tablespoons water and stir-fry until crisp-tender.

  5. Toss

    Add noodles, tofu, bean sprouts and sauce; toss 2 to 3 minutes until hot and coated, then top with peanuts, spring onion and cilantro.

How to tell when it is ready

Add noodles, tofu, bean sprouts and sauce; toss 2 to 3 minutes until hot and coated, then top with peanuts, spring onion and cilantro.

Tips

  • Soak or cook rice noodles according to package directions until just pliable.
  • Whisk soy sauce, tamarind, vinegar, maple syrup, lime juice and chilli paste in a small bowl.
  • Heat oil in a wok or large skillet.
  • Cook garlic 30 seconds.

Troubleshooting

  • If noodles clump, rinse and toss with a little oil.
  • If sauce is too sharp, add maple syrup a teaspoon at a time.

Substitutions

  • Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup.

Variations

  • Add sliced red chilli for more heat.
  • Use sliced mushrooms in place of broccoli.

Serving suggestions

  • Serve with lime wedges.
  • Scatter extra peanuts on top.
  • Add cilantro at the table.
  • Pair with cucumber slices.

Make ahead

Prepare the measured ingredients in advance. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

Food safety

Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce if needed; check all packaged sauces for vegan ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know vegan pad thai with tofu and vegetables is ready?

Add noodles, tofu, bean sprouts and sauce; toss 2 to 3 minutes until hot and coated, then top with peanuts, spring onion and cilantro.

How should I store vegan pad thai with tofu and vegetables?

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

Serve with lime wedges. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

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