This Easy Vegan Orange Tofu is packed with flavor and super simple to make! Crispy tofu is dressed in a bright orange sauce that’s both sweet and tangy—perfect for any meal. 🍊
Honestly, the sauce is magical. I can’t help but drizzle some extra on my rice, and then I might end up just eating it straight from the bowl! It’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for a satisfying texture. If you need a soy-free option, try using tempeh or seitan. Both work well but will offer different flavors. I typically go for extra-firm for that great crunch!
Cornstarch: This is key for getting the tofu crispy. If you need a substitute, arrowroot powder works similarly. I’ve also used potato starch in a pinch, and it gives a nice crunch, too!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor but if you don’t have any, you can use store-bought juice. Just double-check that it’s 100% pure for that vibrant, fruity taste!
Maple Syrup: I love the sweetness this adds, but agave nectar or sugar would be great alternatives. Maple syrup also gives a unique depth, so try it if you can!
Broccoli: If you want to change things up, any green vegetable works well here. Snap peas or bok choy can be a fun twist. I often use a mix of whatever I have on hand!
How Do I Make the Tofu Crispy?
Getting the tofu crispy is essential for this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step takes about 15-30 minutes but is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.
- Coat the pressed tofu in cornstarch—make sure to cover all sides evenly.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add your oil. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the tofu. This helps to seal the outside quickly!
- Choose a non-stick pan if possible. Cook on one side until golden, then gently flip to cook the other sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes each side.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If you’re making a big batch, cook in batches to keep the crispiness!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have crispy tofu every time!
How to Make Easy Vegan Orange Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Veggies and Rice:
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steamed or roasted)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp black sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tsp white sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1-2 oranges)
- 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
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delightful dish great for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press and Cube the Tofu:
Start by removing excess water from the tofu. Press it for 15-30 minutes to ensure it’s nice and dry. Then, cut it into cubes about 1-inch in size. This helps achieve that perfect texture!
2. Coat the Tofu:
In a bowl, sprinkle the cubed tofu with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Gently toss the tofu cubes to ensure that all sides are evenly coated. This step is key for making the tofu crispy!
3. Cook the Tofu:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with a spatula, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. When cooked, 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 red pepper flakes (if using). This sauce will bring all the amazing flavors together!
5. Cook the Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. After a minute, add the cornstarch slurry to the pan, stirring well. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet. Use a spatula to gently toss the tofu in the sauce until all pieces are well-coated and glistening with that delicious orange sauce!
7. Prepare the Sides:
While the tofu is cooking, steam or roast the broccoli until tender. On the side, cook your rice according to the package instructions.
8. Assemble the Bowl:
To serve, place a portion of rice on a plate, add a heap of orange tofu, and top with the steamed broccoli. Garnish with thinly sliced orange, chopped green onions, and sprinkle black and white sesame seeds on top for a lovely finish!
9. Enjoy:
Take a moment to admire your creation, then dig in while it’s warm! Enjoy the bright, tangy, and sweet flavors of this easy vegan orange tofu – it’s a delight!
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh steamed greens and fluffy rice for a satisfying and colorful meal. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ for Easy Vegan Orange Tofu
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While broccoli is a great choice, you can easily substitute it with snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on your chosen veggie to ensure they’re cooked to tenderness!
What Can I Substitute for Tofu?
If you want to replace tofu, tempeh or seitan are excellent alternatives that add similar protein content. For a nutty flavor and a different texture, try using chickpeas or roasted cauliflower instead. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it for a quick option!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Additionally, always check the labels on your cornstarch and any packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free!
