Savory Harmony: Oil-Free and Flavor-Packed Gluten-Free Pad Thai

Ingredients:

For the Pad Thai Sauce:

• 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)

For the Pad Thai:

• 8 ounces gluten-free rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup tofu, pressed and cubed (or use your preferred protein)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (use different colors for visual appeal)
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving
• Crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

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

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: gluten-free soy sauce, tamarind paste, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Adjust the quantities to achieve your desired flavor.

3. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu (or other protein) and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté garlic until fragrant.

5. Add sliced carrots and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

6. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the Pad Thai sauce into the cleared space. Allow it to heat for a moment, then combine with the vegetables.

7. Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan, tossing to coat them evenly with the sauce and vegetables.

8. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan and stir to combine everything.

9. Toss in bean sprouts, chopped green onions, and cilantro. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

10. Serve the gluten-free and dairy-free Pad Thai with lime wedges and, if desired, garnish with crushed peanuts.Enjoy your delicious gluten-free and dairy-free Pad Thai! Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your preferences.