High Protein Tofu Pad Thai (Print Version)
High protein tofu Pad Thai ready in 30 minutes. A plant-based dinner packed with flavor, rice noodles, and 25g protein per serving.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Thai
Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Crispy Tofu Base
01 -
14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
02 -
2 tbsp cornstarch
03 -
2 tbsp soy sauce
04 -
1 tbsp sesame oil
05 -
8 oz flat rice noodles
→ Savory Pad Thai Sauce
06 -
3 tbsp tamarind paste
07 -
3 tbsp soy sauce
08 -
2 tbsp brown sugar
09 -
1 tbsp sriracha
10 -
1 tbsp rice vinegar
→ Fresh Aromatics & Vegetables
11 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
1 cup shredded red cabbage
13 -
1 cup bean sprouts
14 -
3 green onions, sliced
15 -
2 tbsp neutral oil
→ Crunchy Protein Toppings
16 -
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
17 -
1 lime, cut into wedges for garnish
18 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Soak 8 oz flat rice noodles in warm water for 10-12 minutes until pliable but still slightly firm — they'll finish cooking in the wok. Drain and set aside. Properly soaked noodles are the secret to a perfectly textured High Protein Tofu Pad Thai that doesn't clump or turn mushy.
02 -
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp tamarind paste, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp sriracha, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar until the sugar fully dissolves. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness to your preference. Set the sauce aside — you'll add it all at once later.
03 -
Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu with 2 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp sesame oil until evenly coated. Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and cook tofu for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
04 -
Add the remaining 1 tbsp neutral oil to the same wok over high heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 cup shredded red cabbage and toss for 2 minutes until just softened. Keeping the wok hot ensures a proper stir-fry char for your High Protein Tofu Pad Thai.
05 -
Add the drained rice noodles directly into the wok with the cabbage and garlic. Pour the prepared Pad Thai sauce over everything and toss vigorously using tongs for 2-3 minutes, ensuring every noodle strand is coated. If noodles stick, add 1-2 tbsp of water to loosen them up.
06 -
Return the crispy tofu to the wok and fold it gently into the noodles. Add 1 cup bean sprouts and half of the 3 sliced green onions, tossing everything together for just 1 minute. Keeping the sprouts slightly crunchy adds a fresh contrast to this Quick Plant-Based Dinner that makes every bite satisfying.
07 -
Divide your High Protein Tofu Pad Thai evenly among 4 bowls. Top each serving with 1/2 cup roughly chopped roasted peanuts, the remaining sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish that elevates the entire dish.
# Notes:
01 -
💡 Tofu Pressing Tip: For the crispiest tofu, press your extra-firm tofu for at least 30 minutes before cooking — wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy pan on top. The drier the tofu, the better it crisps up in the wok.
02 -
🔄 Substitution Tip: No tamarind paste on hand? Mix 2 tbsp fresh lime juice with 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce as a quick substitute. It won't be identical, but it delivers a similar sweet-tangy depth that works beautifully in this Quick Plant-Based Dinner.
03 -
🥡 Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water to revive the noodles. Note that the bean sprouts will soften over time, so add fresh ones when reheating for the best texture.
04 -
🍽️ Serving Tip: For an extra protein boost, serve this High Protein Tofu Pad Thai alongside a simple edamame side or top with a soft-boiled egg if you're not strictly vegan. A drizzle of chili oil at the table also adds a wonderful smoky heat for spice lovers.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
large wok or skillet
02 -
medium saucepan
03 -
cutting board
04 -
chef's knife
05 -
mixing bowls
06 -
colander
07 -
tofu press or paper towels
08 -
wooden spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 520 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 62 g
Protein: 22 g