Pad See Ew Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Meal Ideas

If you’re craving a delicious, hearty, and authentic Thai stir-fried noodle dish that’s completely vegetarian, look no further than this Pad See Ew recipe! Pad See Ew is a beloved street food in Thailand, known for its smoky flavor, tender wide rice noodles, and savory sauce.

The vegetarian version of this dish is just as satisfying and packed with vibrant vegetables, making it a perfect meal for anyone seeking a wholesome, plant-based dinner that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Thai cuisine or a newbie looking to explore, this recipe will introduce you to the delightful balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors that make Pad See Ew so irresistible.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a simple yet flavorful dish. Plus, it’s highly adaptable — you can customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Dive into this step-by-step guide to create a restaurant-quality Pad See Ew right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pad See Ew is a classic Thai noodle dish that combines soft, chewy rice noodles with crisp-tender vegetables and a luscious, savory sauce. This vegetarian version keeps all the bold flavors intact while making it accessible for those who prefer plant-based meals.

Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or tofu for protein.
• Authentic flavor: Made with traditional ingredients like soy sauce and Chinese broccoli.
• Healthy and balanced: Loaded with fiber-rich vegetables and gluten-free rice noodles.
• Perfectly smoky: Achieved by stir-frying with high heat for that signature wok hei aroma.

Ingredients

• 8 oz wide rice noodles (fresh or dried, soaked)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Chinese broccoli (gai lan), chopped into 2-inch pieces
• 1 medium carrot, sliced thinly
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 block firm tofu, cubed (optional)
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color and sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving

Equipment

• Large wok or non-stick skillet
• Medium bowl (for soaking noodles if dried)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Colander or strainer

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice noodles. If using dried wide rice noodles, soak them in warm water for 20-30 minutes until softened but still firm. Drain and set aside. If using fresh noodles, gently separate them with your hands.
2. Make the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Set aside.
3. Cook the tofu (if using). Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the wok over medium-high heat. Add cubed tofu and stir-fry until golden on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
4. Stir-fry the garlic and vegetables. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the wok. Toss in minced garlic and stir quickly until fragrant, about 15 seconds. Add Chinese broccoli, carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Add the noodles. Push the vegetables to one side of the wok and add the drained noodles. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together carefully to coat the noodles evenly. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing noodles to slightly char for that smoky flavor.
6. Return tofu to the wok. Gently mix in the tofu cubes and green onions. Stir-fry for another minute to combine all the flavors. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately. Plate your Pad See Ew and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra bright, tangy finish.

Tips & Variations

“For the best authentic taste, use a very hot wok and avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps achieve the classic smoky ‘wok hei’ flavor that defines great Pad See Ew.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add mushrooms, baby corn, snap peas, or broccoli florets instead of Chinese broccoli.
• Protein options: Try tempeh, seitan, or edamame as alternatives to tofu.
• Gluten-free version: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and double-check the oyster sauce substitute.
• Spicy twist: Add sliced fresh chili or a dash of chili flakes for heat.
• Noodle alternatives: If you can’t find wide rice noodles, try flat rice vermicelli as a substitute.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Pad See Ew is a fulfilling meal on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with these serving ideas:

• Serve alongside vegetarian Middle Eastern appetizers for a fusion-themed dinner.
• Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or a crisp vegetable dip to balance the savory noodles.
• Enjoy with a light soup like the Low Calorie Vegetable Soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Pad See Ew recipe is a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand into your kitchen without any meat. The combination of tender rice noodles, crisp vegetables, and the signature savory sauce makes every bite a delight.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to your preferences and dietary needs, whether you want to add tofu for extra protein or keep it purely vegetable-based.

By mastering this recipe, you’ll have a go-to meal that’s quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s also a great gateway into exploring more vegetarian and vegan Asian dishes.

If you enjoyed this Pad See Ew, don’t miss out on other delicious recipes like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to expand your culinary repertoire!

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