Vegan Pad Thai with Rosemary Garlic Tofu

If you’re craving a flavourful, satisfying meal that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavours, this Vegetarian Pad Thai with Rosemary Garlic Crunchy Tofu is a must-try! The crispy tofu, infused with rosemary and garlic, adds an herby twist to the classic Pad Thai, making it even more irresistible. Plus, it’s quick and easy—perfect for a weeknight dinner!

🍽 Servings: 3-4 people
⏳ Prep Time: 20 minutes
🌱 Plant-Based Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Crispy, herby tofu – a delicious twist on classic Pad Thai toppings.
✅ Loaded with colorful veggies for a nutritious and wholesome dish.
✅ Simple & satisfying – 20 minutes of prep, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal!

🌿 Ingredients

For the Rosemary Garlic Crunchy Tofu:

1 block extra-firm tofu, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)
1 ½ tbsp nutritional yeast (adds a subtle umami flavor)
1 tsp finely diced fresh rosemary
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt

For the Pad Thai:

200g rice noodles (cook as instructed on package)
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, julienned
2 carrots, julienned
A handful of green beans, chopped
200ml vegetable stock (or dissolve 1 cube in 200ml hot water for extra flavor)

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
3 tbsp tamarind paste (find it at your local Asian store! If unavailable, substitute with rice vinegar and a little extra maple syrup)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2️⃣ In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, nutritional yeast, rosemary, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
3️⃣ Toss the diced tofu in olive oil, then coat with the seasoning mix.
4️⃣ Spread on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1️⃣ Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the onion, red pepper, carrots, and green beans for about 10 minutes.
2️⃣ For extra depth of flavor, cook the veggies in 200ml vegetable stock instead of oil.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles & Combine

1️⃣ Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Add the cooked noodles to the sautéed vegetables.

Step 4: Make the Sauce & Bring It All Together

1️⃣ In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, maple syrup (or sugar), and tamarind paste.
2️⃣ Pour the sauce over the noodles and veggies, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
3️⃣ Finally, add the crispy tofu to the pan and toss gently.

✨ Serving Suggestions

🔥 Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
🍋 Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of freshness.
🌿 Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.

Enjoy this flavorful, comforting, and nutritious Pad Thai—a dish that brings together herby crisp tofu, sweet & tangy sauce, and crunchy veggies in every bite!

Will you be trying this recipe? 🍽️💛

The Secret Street