Vegetarian Stir-Fried Papaya with Luffa and Eggs - มะละกอผัดกับบวบและไข่ (malako phat kap buap lae khai)

Executive Summary

Discover the taste of organic Thai cooking with this quick and healthy stir-fry from Hua Hin Services. Using fresh green papaya and luffa (a type of squash), this vegetarian dish is ready in just 20 minutes. The recipe combines crisp vegetables with golden-fried tofu, all tossed in a savory sauce of soy sauce and vegetarian oyster sauce, with a hint of garlic and optional chili for heat. A touch of turmeric adds a beautiful golden color. Garnished with fresh cilantro, it's a vibrant, veggie-packed meal perfect with steamed rice. For extra flavor, try a squeeze of lime or add edamame for more protein. It’s a simple, delicious way to enjoy garden-fresh produce.

Serves: 2 Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green papaya (มะละกอ), julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 cup luffa (บวบ), peeled and sliced into thin strips
• 200g firm tofu (เต้าหู้), cubed (or 1 cup chickpeas for a different texture)
• 2 cloves garlic (กระเทียม), minced
• 1-2 Thai chilies (พริก), sliced (optional)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (ซีอิ๊ว)
• 1 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce (ซอสเห็ดหอม)
• 1/2 tsp sugar (น้ำตาล)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (น้ำมันพืช)
• Fresh cilantro (ผักชี), chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional, for color)

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Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:

   • Peel and slice the luffa and papaya as above.
   • Press and cube the tofu (or drain and rinse chickpeas if using).
   • Mince the garlic and slice the chilies.

2. Stir-Fry the Tofu:

   • Heat the oil in a wok or pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the tofu and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

   • In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the garlic and chilies for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the Vegetables:

   • Add the luffa and papaya. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

5. Combine and Season:

   • Return the tofu to the pan. Add soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, and turmeric (if using). Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with steamed rice.

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Tips:

• For extra protein, add edamame or tempeh.
• If you like a tangy flavor, finish with a squeeze of lime.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste—add more soy sauce for saltiness or a pinch of salt if needed.

Discover how papaya is used in Thai vegetarian cuisine—perfect for salads, curries, and healthy dishes in Hua Hin gardens.