Crispy Orange “Chicken” Tofu

Discover the delightful crunch and tangy sweetness of our Crispy Orange “Chicken” Tofu. This plant-based take on a classic favorite features extra firm tofu, expertly pressed and cubed, then tossed in a light cornstarch coating for that perfect crispy exterior. Bathed in a zesty orange sauce with a hint of ginger and garlic, each bite offers a burst of vibrant citrus flavor balanced with a subtle sweetness. It's a deliciously satisfying dish that's sure to win over even the most discerning palates, ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

Servings: 4
  • 1 tbsp
    cornstarch
  • ½ tsp
    salt
  • 400 g
    block extra firm tofu drained, pressed and cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp
    cornstarch ¼ cup water, Cornstarch slurry
  • 3 pcs
    cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tsp
    minced ginger
  • ½ cup
    freshly squeezed orange juice about 2 medium navel orange
  • 2 tbsp
    soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tbsp
    rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp
    maple syrup
  • 1 tsp
    orange zest optional

Instructions

  1. Combine cornstarch and salt, and mix well. Pat dry tofu cubes using paper towel.
  2. In a zip bag, place in tofu cubes and cornstarch mixture. Toss until the cubes are well-coated.

  3. Heat up about ½ tablespoon of neutral oil over medium high heat in a cast iron pan or non-stick pan. Place in tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each sides, or until most sides are golden. A flexible spatula will aid the flipping process. Set aside.
  4. While tofu is cooking, make cornstarch slurry by combining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water.
  5. In the same pan, pour in another ½ tablespoon of oil. Add in garlic and ginger, and saute until fragrant for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Next, pour in orange juice, ½ of the soy sauce (1 tablespoon) , vinegar and maple syrup. Bring mixture to a simmer, then add in slurry. Cook until sauce has thicken and is glossy. Turn off heat, give it a taste and add in the rest of the soy sauce and more seasonings, if needed.
  7. Lastly, stir in pan-fried tofu until they are well-coated. Top with with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve vegan orange chicken with some fluffy rice and enjoy !

About the author

Tags

Courses: Main Course
Cooking time: 15-30 minutes
Special diets: Gluten-free
Cuisines: Chinese
Difficulty: Level 2 (average)
Preparation method: Grill / Pan-fry
Number ingredients: 10-15 ingredients