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Vegan Pad Thai

This quick and vibrant vegan Pad Thai combines rice noodles stir-fried with colorful vegetables and a tangy, smoky sauce. Topped with crunchy crushed peanuts and fresh herbs, it offers a satisfying, saucy texture with a beautiful glossy appearance. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s adaptable and full of bold flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz rice noodles soaked or cooked according to package
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts, or broccoli
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for saltiness
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave for sweetness
  • 1 tbsp lime juice for acidity
  • 1 tsp sesame oil for toasty aroma
  • 1 pinch chili flakes optional, for heat
  • 1/4 cup peanuts toasted and crushed
  • Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Cooking spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Start by heating your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat, then add a splash of sesame oil and let it warm until fragrant.
  2. Add the mixed vegetables to the hot pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they become vibrant and slightly tender with a bit of crunch.
  3. Pour in the cooked rice noodles, then drizzle with soy sauce or tamari and the maple syrup or agave, tossing everything together to coat the noodles evenly and heat through.
  4. Squeeze in the lime juice and sprinkle chili flakes, then stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the noodles to serving bowls, then sprinkle generously with toasted, crushed peanuts for crunch.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil leaves and squeeze an extra lime wedge over before serving for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

Feel free to customize with different vegetables or adjust the sauce to taste. For extra smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.