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30-Minute Vegan Pad Thai

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A quick and delicious noodle dish packed with bold flavor, crunchy veggies, and a tangy-sweet sauce. This vegan pad Thai is ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

2 tablespoons peanut butter or almond butter

2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave

1½ tablespoons tamarind paste (or 1 tablespoon rice vinegar + 1 teaspoon lime juice)

1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or Sriracha (optional, for spice)

2 tablespoons water

For the Noodles:

8 oz rice noodles

1 tablespoon sesame oil or neutral oil

1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded carrots

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

2 green onions, sliced

1 cup bean sprouts (optional)

¼ cup chopped peanuts

Lime wedges, for serving

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Cook Noodles:
Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, maple syrup, tamarind paste, chili garlic sauce, and water. Set aside.

Cook Tofu:
In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and pan-fry until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry Veggies:
In the same skillet, add garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and half of the green onions. Cook for 3–5 minutes until slightly tender.

Combine:
Add cooked noodles and tofu back to the skillet. Pour the sauce over and toss everything to coat well. Stir in bean sprouts if using.

Serve:
Divide into bowls and top with chopped peanuts, remaining green onions, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use tamari for a gluten-free version.

Add more chili sauce for extra heat.

You can swap tofu for tempeh or edamame.

Leftovers keep well for 2–3 days in the fridge and reheat nicely.