Description
Enjoy a vegan twist on orange chicken with this Crispy Vegan Orange Tofu! Golden, crispy tofu nuggets are tossed in a zesty, sweet, and tangy orange sauce, making this dish a flavor-packed, plant-based favorite. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crispy Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed & cubed
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (for frying)
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For Serving:
- Steamed rice or noodles
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Crispy Tofu:
- Press the Tofu – Wrap tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top. Let it press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Coat the Tofu – Cut tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, toss with cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well coated.
- Pan-Fry Until Crispy – Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a pan over medium heat. Add tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Orange Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Thicken the Sauce – Pour the sauce into the same pan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
- Coat the Tofu – Add the crispy tofu to the pan and toss until fully coated in the orange sauce.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Plate It Up – Serve over steamed rice or noodles, then garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Enjoy!
Notes
- Want it even crispier? Bake the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- For a spicy kick, add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Vegan, Asian-Inspired
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese, Vegan
