This Easy Vegan Orange Tofu is perfect for anyone wanting a tasty meal without the fuss. It combines crispy tofu with a zesty orange sauce that brightens every bite!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. Just toss the tofu in the sauce and watch it turn a lovely golden color. Serve it over rice for a delicious dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape well when cooked. If you don’t have tofu, tempeh can be a great alternative for a similar texture and protein content.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor, but you can use store-bought juice if you’re short on time. For a twist, try lemon juice or a mix of citrus juices if oranges are scarce.
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce adds depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, swap it out with tamari or coconut aminos which provide a similar taste without gluten.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is essential for making the tofu crispy. If you need a substitute, arrowroot powder works well for the same purpose. Just keep an eye on the cooking times!
How Do I Avoid Soggy Tofu?
Getting crispy tofu is all about removing moisture and cooking it correctly. After pressing the tofu, cut it into cubes and coat them with cornstarch. This will help create a lovely crunch when fried.
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the tofu. A hot pan helps sear the tofu, locking in the moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Space allows for even cooking and crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Orange Sauce?
To achieve a glossy, thick sauce, start by bringing the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s bubbling, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) slowly. This work best:
- Make sure to stir the sauce continuously to avoid clumps.
- Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
With these tips and substitutions, you’re well on your way to making a delicious, vibrant orange tofu dish that’s sure to impress!
Easy Vegan Orange Tofu
Ingredients
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 1 cup cooked white rice (for serving)
For the Orange Sauce:
- 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to create a slurry)
For Garnishes:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Time Needed
This Easy Vegan Orange Tofu recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 20 minutes getting everything ready, and just a few minutes cooking it up. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu:
To start, press the tofu for at least 20 minutes. This helps remove any excess moisture which keeps the tofu crispy. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, gently toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until they are all evenly coated. This will create a lovely crispy texture when cooked.
2. Cook the Tofu:
Now, heat the neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer; be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until all sides are golden brown and crispy. After cooking, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
While the tofu is cooking, you can whip up the orange sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This mixture smells amazing!
4. Cook the Sauce:
Pour the orange sauce mixture into the same pan that you used for the tofu. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once it starts to bubble, add the cornstarch slurry you prepared earlier. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
5. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the crispy tofu to the pan, tossing gently to evenly coat all the pieces with that delicious orange sauce. Let it cook together for another 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Serve:
Spoon the cooked white rice into bowls and generously top it with the orange tofu. To finish, garnish with the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for that extra crunch and flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Your delicious, tangy, and crispy Vegan Orange Tofu meal is ready to enjoy! It’s packed with flavor and texture, making it perfect for any night of the week.
This recipe is beginner-friendly and ideal for a quick weeknight meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ about Easy Vegan Orange Tofu
Can I Use Firm Tofu Instead of Extra-Firm?
Yes, you can use firm tofu, but be aware that it may not hold its shape as well during cooking. Extra-firm tofu is preferable for a crispier texture, but if you only have firm on hand, just handle it gently while cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use tamari in place of soy sauce. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the tofu moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just sauté them in the pan before adding the orange sauce, then proceed with the recipe as directed!
