Easy Tofu Pad Thai Vegan Minimalist Baker Recipes

We’ve shared an incredible Noodle-Free Pad Thai in the past, but sometimes it’s nice to have the filling, noodle-y goodness that comes with a more classic version of the dish. This simple plant-based version of Pad Thai takes just 30-minutes to prepare and delivers a hefty helping of flavor. Let’s do this!

Origin of Pad Thai

Pad Thai is believed to have originated in Thailand during World War II. It was born out of a combination of a rice shortage and Thailand’s prime minister wanting to create a national dish. It’s traditionally made with rice noodles (which were borrowed from Chinese cuisine), egg, tofu, dried shrimp, and a salty-sweet-sour sauce. The sauce is usually made simply with palm sugar, tamarind, and fish sauce or soy sauce. You can find an authentic preparation here from Hot Thai Kitchen! Our inspired version borrows the concept of rice noodles and tofu, but skips the egg, dried shrimp, and fish sauce. Our sauce is soy-free and plant-based and brings in more flavor elements like ginger and garlic.

How to Make Pad Thai

This recipe starts with tamarind, which gives the sauce bold color and a classic Pad Thai flavor. The tamarind is mixed with coconut aminos, coconut sugar, chili garlic sauce, lime juice, and Vegetarian Fish Sauce (optional), creating the perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and umami. Once the sauce is prepared, it’s time for the protein. We went with tofu, but shrimp and chicken are also options if not vegan. Bites of tofu are gently sautéed in oil to add a delicious dose of protein (16.6 grams per serving!) to the meal. Garlic and chili flake add heat and pops of flavor! Rice noodles are soaked briefly in hot water, then tossed together with the sauce, green onions, bean sprouts, and peanuts. Serious swoon. And that’s it! In less time than it takes to get a takeout order delivered, dinner is on the table. To make this dish even more special, we like to garnish it with carrot ribbons, cilantro, chili garlic sauce, and peanut sauce. We hope you’ll love this dish! It’s: SimpleFlavorfulHeartyCrunchyVersatile& Delicious This makes an excellent, satisfying meal on its own, but if you’re looking for extra veggies, it would pair nicely with Papaya Salad, Thai Spring Rolls, or Thai Carrot Salad. While we love this noodle version, if you are looking for a lighter option be sure to try our Noodle-Free Pad Thai!