Pad Thai Tofu
Pad Thai Tofu is a popular vegetarian adaptation of Thailand's iconic stir-fried noodle dish, replacing traditional proteins with firm tofu. It features rice noodles stir-fried with tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, and a signature sweet-savory-tangy sauce made from tamarind, fish sauce (or a vegetarian alternative), palm sugar, and lime, often topped with crushed peanuts. This dish is a staple of Thai street food, known for its balanced flavors and vibrant textures.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced source of carbohydrates from the rice noodles, plant-based protein from the tofu, and healthy fats from peanuts and cooking oil. It provides key nutrients like iron, manganese, and B vitamins, with a typical serving ranging from 400 to 600 calories, depending on portion size and sauce richness.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 55 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 100 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin A | 50 µg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Manganese | 2 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Pad Thai was promoted as a national dish in Thailand during the mid-20th century to foster unity and reduce rice consumption, and this vegetarian version highlights the dish's adaptability to diverse dietary preferences. Nutritionally, the tamarind-based sauce not only adds a unique sweet-sour flavor but also offers antioxidants and may aid digestion.
