Vegetarian Pad Thai

Vegetarian Pad Thai Recipe from Thailand

Region / culture: Thailand | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Vegetarian Pad Thai is a delicious and flavorful dish that originates from Thailand. This dish is a popular choice for those looking for a meatless option that is still packed with protein and vegetables.

History

Pad Thai is a traditional Thai dish that dates back to the 1930s. It was created during a time when the Thai government was promoting nationalism and a sense of Thai identity. Pad Thai quickly became a popular street food dish and is now enjoyed all over the world.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) uncooked rice noodles
2 tsp peanut oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced (medium size)
1 medium red bell pepper, julienned
2 large tomatoes, seeded and diced (ripe)
4 oz (113 g) snow peas
4 oz (113 g) firm tofu, drained and cut into 0.25 inch thick matchsticks
0.25 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
0.25 cup chopped cashews
4 chopped scallions
2 oz (57 g) fresh bean sprouts (1 cup)

How to prepare

In a large pot, bring 3 qt (2.84 liters) of water to a boil.
Add the noodles and stir to prevent sticking.
Cook until the noodles are tender, about 4 minutes.
Drain the noodles well and set them aside.
Meanwhile, in a large wok or skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and bell pepper and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
Stir in the tomatoes, snow peas, and tofu and stir-fry until the vegetables are just tender, about 4 minutes.
Add the soy sauce and lime juice and bring it to a simmer.
Cook, stirring often, for 2 to 3 minutes more.
Stir in the cooked noodles and cilantro.
Divide the noodle mixture among plates.
Sprinkle with cashews, scallions, and bean sprouts and serve right away.

Variations

Add in your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different protein option.
For a spicy kick, add in some sriracha or red pepper flakes to the stir-fry.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the noodles until they are just tender, as overcooking can result in mushy noodles.

- Stir-fry the vegetables until they are just tender to retain their crunch and vibrant colors.

- Be sure to drain the noodles well before adding them to the stir-fry to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Vegetarian Pad Thai with a side of fresh lime wedges and extra cilantro for added flavor. Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the key technique used in this recipe to quickly cook the vegetables and tofu while retaining their crunch and flavor. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute the rice noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetables and tofu ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Cook the noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Vegetarian Pad Thai with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, a wedge of lime, and a sprig of fresh cilantro for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Vegetarian Pad Thai with a glass of crisp white wine such as a Riesling or a light and refreshing Thai iced tea for a perfect meal combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through or stir-fry in a skillet until warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 12g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 70% of the daily recommended intake per serving

- Vitamin A: 20% of the daily recommended intake per serving

- Iron: 15% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

Contains peanuts and soy

Summary

Vegetarian Pad Thai is a nutritious dish that is high in carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a well-balanced meal that is perfect for vegetarians and those looking for a healthy and flavorful option.

Summary

Vegetarian Pad Thai is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and those looking for a flavorful meatless option. Packed with protein, vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling satisfied. Enjoy this classic Thai dish for a tasty and healthy meal option.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Vegetarian Pad Thai. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished a morning of grocery shopping at the local market. As I was walking through the aisles, my eyes fell upon a small stand where a kind old woman was selling various Asian-inspired ingredients.

I struck up a conversation with her, and she kindly offered me a taste of her homemade Vegetarian Pad Thai. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the tangy tamarind, the spicy chili, the crunchy peanuts, and the chewy rice noodles. I was instantly hooked and knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

The old woman saw the excitement in my eyes and invited me to her home that afternoon to teach me the recipe. I eagerly accepted, and we spent the next few hours cooking together in her cozy kitchen. She showed me how to prepare the sauce from scratch, using tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar. She also taught me the importance of balancing flavors - sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

As the noodles cooked, she added tofu, bean sprouts, and chopped peanuts to the pan, creating a colorful and vibrant dish. I watched in amazement as she effortlessly tossed the ingredients together, creating a beautiful and delicious masterpiece.

After we finished cooking, we sat down to enjoy the meal together. The flavors of the Vegetarian Pad Thai danced on my taste buds, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, tweaking it to my taste and adding my own personal touch. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with the dish just as I did that hot summer day.

I have also learned variations of the recipe from different people I have met along the way. Each version has its own unique twist, but they all share the same foundation of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a whole lot of love.

One of my favorite memories of making Vegetarian Pad Thai was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were curious to see what I was cooking and eagerly helped me chop vegetables and stir the sauce. It was a joy to pass on this recipe to the next generation, watching as they discovered the magic of cooking and sharing a meal together.

As the years have passed, I have continued to make Vegetarian Pad Thai, always feeling a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for that fateful day at the market. The recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of food to connect people, create memories, and bring joy.

So, the next time you are looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, I encourage you to try making Vegetarian Pad Thai. It may just become a beloved recipe in your own kitchen, bringing with it a taste of tradition, heritage, and love. Bon appétit!