Method

1. Cut the tofu into 2-3 ‘steaks’ and place between a paper towel or tea towels and a heavy object on top, to drain some of the water out of the tofu. Leave for 5-10mins while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. To prepare the brown rice noodles, place them into a large bowl, pour over plenty of boiling water and soak for 5mins. Drain and quickly rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process. Don’t leave the noodles sitting in boiling water for more than 6mins, as they should be al dente.

3. Mix the tamarind, fish sauce, oyster sauce and peanut butter in a small bowl and set aside.

4. Cut the tofu into 2cm cubes and set aside.

5. In a large wok or non-stick frying pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium heat.

6. Fry the garlic, chilli, and ginger for 30-60 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the onion and fry for a further minute.

7. Add the tofu and fry for 3-4mins so it begins to brown. Push the ingredients to one side of the pan and break the egg on the other side. Using a wooden spoon scramble the egg in the pan before mixing with the rest of the ingredients.

8. Add the carrots, courgette, and cook for 2mins.

9. Add the noodles, sauce, and spring onions to the wok, and finally toss in the bean sprouts and coriander leaves. Cook for 2mins, or until just heated through.

10. Serve with lime wedges and crushed peanuts on top

Second Nature special tip

For a vegan/vegetarian alternative, replace the fish sauce and oyster sauce for 1 tbsp soy sauce and remove the egg. A traditional pad Thai will have some sugar added – we suggest trying without but if you feel it needs the sweetness to cut through the sour add ½ tsp of honey, brown sugar, or palm sugar.