Spicy Pad Thai with Tofu Recipe

pad thai tofu spicy

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces rice noodles
  • 1 block (14-16 ounces) firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

For the sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons tamarind paste
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian/vegan option)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste for desired spiciness)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the noodles: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, fish sauce (or additional soy sauce), brown sugar, and chili paste until well combined. Adjust sweetness or spiciness according to your taste.
  4. Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same skillet or wok, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot, stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Add vegetables: Add sliced red bell pepper and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  6. Combine everything: Add the cooked rice noodles and prepared sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until well combined and heated through.
  7. Add tofu and bean sprouts: Gently fold in the cooked tofu cubes and bean sprouts. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  8. Serve: Transfer the spicy Pad Thai with tofu to serving plates. Garnish with chopped green onions and roasted peanuts. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over.

Enjoy your Spicy Pad Thai with Tofu! Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili paste according to your preference. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.