What To Know
- Embark on a culinary adventure with our delectable Pad Thai Tofu recipe, a beloved Thai street food that tantalizes taste buds worldwide.
- Pour the Pad Thai sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to culinary success.
Embark on a culinary adventure with our delectable Pad Thai Tofu recipe, a beloved Thai street food that tantalizes taste buds worldwide. This vegetarian-friendly dish combines the vibrant flavors of tamarind, fish sauce, and sweet chili sauce, creating a harmonious symphony of sweet, sour, and savory notes.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) package firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime wedges
For the Pad Thai Sauce:
- 1/4 cup tamarind paste
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces flat rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu: Cut the tofu into small cubes and pan-fry them in vegetable oil until golden brown. Set aside.
2. Make the Pad Thai Sauce: Combine the tamarind paste, fish sauce, sweet chili sauce, sugar, and water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook the Noodles: Soak the rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes, or until softened. Drain and toss them with vegetable oil.
4. Assemble the Pad Thai: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, scallions, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
5. Add the Sauce and Noodles: Pour the Pad Thai sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the noodles and toss to coat.
6. Incorporate the Tofu: Add the pan-fried tofu cubes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to customize your Pad Thai with additional vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
- Use Different Protein: If desired, you can substitute tofu with other proteins like shrimp, chicken, or beef.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less chili sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
Tips
- Press the Tofu: Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, resulting in crispier tofu cubes.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your Pad Thai.
- Cook the Noodles Al Dente: Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they should still have a slight chew to them.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Pad Thai Tofu contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Serve Pad Thai Tofu with additional lime wedges, bean sprouts, or shredded cabbage.
- Drinks: Pair it with a refreshing Thai iced tea or a cold beer.
The Bottom Line
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Thailand with our Pad Thai Tofu recipe. This vegetarian-friendly dish is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to culinary success.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?
A: Yes, you can use soft tofu, but it will be less crispy.
Q: What can I substitute for fish sauce?
A: You can use soy sauce or tamari sauce as a substitute for fish sauce.
Q: Can I make Pad Thai Tofu ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Pad Thai Tofu up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.