Discover how to make Crispy Fried Tofu Pad Thai with this simple and flavorful recipe. Perfectly crispy tofu is served with a tangy sauce and fresh vegetables for a satisfying, plant-based meal. Ideal for quick dinners or meal prep, this dish combines crunchy texture with vibrant flavors, making it a must-try for tofu lovers and Pad Thai enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients:

For the Crispy Fried Tofu:

 - 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed

 - 1/2 cup cornstarch

 - Salt and pepper, to taste

 - 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Pad Thai:

 - 8 oz rice noodles

 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

 - 1 cup bell peppers, sliced

 - 1 cup snap peas

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional for a vegetarian version)

 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions

 - 1/4 cup crushed peanuts

For the Tangy Sauce:

 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce

 - 2 tablespoons tamarind paste

 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar

 - 1 tablespoon lime juice

 - 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)

Instructions:

Prepare the Tofu:

 - Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

 - Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well-coated.

 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

 - Fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Cook the Noodles:

 - Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Tangy Sauce:

 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, tamarind paste, brown sugar, lime juice, and sriracha. Set aside.

Assemble the Pad Thai:

 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.

 - Add bell peppers, snap peas, and garlic. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

 - If using, add the beaten eggs and cook until scrambled and set.

 - Add the cooked rice noodles and tangy sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.

 - Gently fold in the crispy tofu.

Serve:

 - Garnish with chopped green onions and crushed peanuts.

 - Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy fried tofu Pad Thai!

Feel free to adjust the spice level and vegetables according to your preference.

Nutritional Values

Firm Tofu:

 - Calories: 94

 - Protein: 10g

 - Fat: 5g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Fiber: 1g

 - Calcium: 253mg

 - Iron: 3mg

Benefits:

 - High in complete protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Supports bone health and helps prevent osteoporosis due to its calcium content.

 - Important for oxygen transport and energy production thanks to its iron content.

Rice Noodles:

 - Calories: 192

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 43g

 - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

 - Provides a quick source of carbohydrates for energy.

 - Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease as they are gluten-free.

Bell Peppers:

 - Calories: 30

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 190mg (over 200% DV)

Benefits:

 - Boosts the immune system and improves skin health due to its high vitamin C content.

 - Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect cells.

Snap Peas:

 - Calories: 42

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 60mg

Benefits:

 - Supports digestive health and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels due to its fiber content.

 - Provides vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 4

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fiber: 0g

Benefits:

 - Has antimicrobial properties that help fight infections and support overall immune health.

 - May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, supporting heart health.

Green Onions:

 - Calories: 10

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Fiber: 0g

 - Vitamin K: 13mcg

Benefits:

 - Supports bone health and helps with blood clotting due to its vitamin K content.

 - Contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

Peanuts:

 - Calories: 200

 - Protein: 8g

 - Fat: 18g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Provides a good source of protein and healthy fats, supporting energy levels and heart health.

 - Rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin E and magnesium.

Soy Sauce:

 - Calories: 10

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sodium: 1000mg (varies by brand)

Benefits:

 - Adds umami flavor to dishes without adding significant calories or fat.

Tamarind Paste: 

- Calories: 30

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 8g

 - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

 - Contains dietary fiber that aids digestion.

 - Contributes to immune health and skin maintenance due to its vitamin C content.

Brown Sugar:

 - Calories: 50

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 13g

Benefits:

 - Adds sweetness to dishes while providing some minerals, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar content.

Adjust the ingredient quantities according to your dietary needs and preferences!