Classic Pad Thai with Tofu

Name: Classic Pad Thai with Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 400 grams firm tofu (pressed and cut into cubes); 3 tablespoons tamarind paste; 3 tablespoons fish sauce; 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 250 grams rice noodles (soaked according to package instructions); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 eggs (beaten); 1 cup bean sprouts; 4 green onions (sliced); 1 lime (cut into wedges); 1/4 cup peanuts (crushed); 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

35 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

A delicious and authentic Pad Thai recipe with tofu, perfect for a satisfying meal with a classic Thai flavour.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Pad Thai is a beloved Thai street food dish known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavours. This version features tofu as a protein, making it a delightful vegetarian option that's both satisfying and packed with taste. The key to a great Pad Thai is in the preparation of the sauce and the texture of the tofu. By pressing the tofu and using authentic ingredients like tamarind paste, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether you're a fan of Thai cuisine or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a fantastic choice.

Instructions

Prepare the tofu

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.

Pro tip: Pressing the tofu ensures it absorbs more sauce and retains a firmer texture.

Make the sauce

In a bowl, mix tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, and soy sauce until combined.

Pro tip: Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to your taste.

Cook the noodles

Soak the rice noodles in warm water according to package instructions until softened.

Pro tip: Avoid over-soaking to keep the noodles from becoming mushy.

Fry the tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry tofu until golden brown on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure the tofu is dry before frying for a crispier texture.

Cook the eggs

In the same pan, add more oil if needed and pour in beaten eggs. Scramble until just set.

Pro tip: Cook eggs over medium heat to avoid burning.

Combine ingredients

Add the soaked noodles, tofu, and sauce to the pan with the eggs. Stir-fry everything together over medium-high heat.

Pro tip: Stir quickly to prevent the noodles from sticking.

Add toppings

Mix in bean sprouts and green onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Pro tip: Add more chili flakes for extra spice.

Serve

Garnish with lime wedges, crushed peanuts, and additional chili flakes if desired.

Pro tip: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Press tofu ahead of time to remove excess moisture.
Use tamarind paste for authentic Pad Thai flavour.
Adjust the level of spice to your preference by adding more or less chili flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tofu for Pad Thai?

Firm tofu is best as it holds its shape and absorbs flavours well.

How many calories are in Pad Thai with tofu?

This Pad Thai with tofu contains approximately 450 calories per serving.

Can I make Pad Thai with tofu vegan?

Yes, substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative to make it vegan.

What noodles should I use for Pad Thai?

Use flat rice noodles, which are traditional for Pad Thai and provide the best texture.

How long does it take to make Pad Thai with tofu?

This recipe takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time.

What is the traditional base for Pad Thai sauce?

The sauce typically includes tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Pad Thai with tofu hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of peanuts for added crunch. It pairs wonderfully with a light Thai salad or a refreshing cucumber mint drink. This dish can be prepared ahead of time by making the sauce and pressing the tofu, which allows for quick assembly at mealtime. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently to preserve the flavours.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

15g

Protein

18g

Fat

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