This Easy Vegan Orange Tofu is a zesty and vibrant dish packed with flavor! With crispy tofu and a sweet, tangy orange sauce, it’s a hit on any table.
Whenever I make this, I feel like a kitchen superstar! It’s easy to whip up and perfect over rice or noodles. Trust me, the taste will brighten your day! 🍊✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Extra-firm tofu works best for this dish since it holds its shape and gets crispy. If you’re not a fan of tofu, try using tempeh or chickpeas as alternatives for protein.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work, but go for the one without added sugar. You could also substitute it with lemon or grapefruit juice for a different twist.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds depth, but if you’re avoiding gluten, tamari is an excellent swap. Coconut aminos is another tasty alternative, offering a slightly sweeter flavor.
Maple Syrup: This sweetener balances the tanginess of the orange. You can use agave nectar or even brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand, just adjust to taste!
How Do I Get My Tofu Crispy?
A common challenge with cooking tofu is getting it crispy. Here’s a straightforward way to achieve that:
- Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove water, which prevents sogginess.
- Coat the cubed tofu in cornstarch thoroughly; this creates a crispy crust when fried.
- Heat the oil in your skillet before adding the tofu, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
- Fry each side until golden brown, allowing the tofu to develop a nice crust.
Following these steps will give you that delightful crunch that enhances the dish’s overall texture!
Easy Vegan Orange Tofu
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating tofu)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup cooked jasmine or white rice
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- Orange slices (for garnish)
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Vegan Orange Tofu recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 20 minutes preparing and cooking, plus some time for pressing the tofu before you start. It’s a quick, satisfying, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu for at least 20 minutes to get rid of excess water. This helps it become crispy when cooked. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
2. Coat the Tofu:
Place the cubed tofu in a bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch. Gently toss until each piece is lightly coated. This coating will help create that crispy texture!
3. Cook the Tofu:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once crispy, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Orange Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil. This mix will bring all the vibrant flavors together!
5. Cook the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, pour in the orange sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the pan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine Tofu with Sauce:
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and gently toss it to coat each piece with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
7. Plate the Dish:
To serve, place the orange tofu over a bed of cooked rice and add steamed broccoli on the side. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and orange slices for a lovely presentation!
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, flavorful vegan orange tofu dish. Each bite is sweet, tangy, and delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Firm Tofu Instead of Extra-Firm?
While extra-firm tofu is recommended for the best texture, you can use firm tofu if that’s what you have. Just be sure to press it well to remove excess moisture, as it can be softer and may not get as crispy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you love a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange sauce. Adjust to your preferred level of spiciness for a delicious kick!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Orange Juice?
If fresh orange juice isn’t available, you can substitute it with bottled orange juice, but choose a version without added sugars for the best flavor. Alternatively, a mix of lemon and a little sugar can work in a pinch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out.
