Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Fried tofu in sweet and sour homemade orange sauce creates a delightful Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) dish that can impress even the most skeptical eaters. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. With its vibrant flavors and crispy texture, this dish will surely become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is quick to make and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of tangy orange juice and savory spices delivers a delicious balance of sweet and sour that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences!
• Healthy Alternative: This dish is packed with plant-based protein from tofu and utilizes wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who aren’t fans of tofu will love this dish, thanks to its crispy texture and bold flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on the tofu.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows for easy ingredient mixing without cross-contamination.
• Whisk: A whisk helps create a smooth batter for coating the tofu, ensuring each piece is evenly covered.

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Ingredients

For this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), you will need the following ingredients:

For the Tofu Coating

• 1/2 cup of neutral oil (I used canola)
• 1 package of tofu (16 oz / 454 g)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/4-1/3 cup water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Orange Sauce

• 1 cup of orange juice
• 1/3-1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional)
• 2 teaspoons crushed ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

How to Make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1. Press and pat dry the tofu. If you’re using Trader Joe’s High Protein Tofu, there’s no need to press it.
2. Break the tofu into small 1-inch nuggets. The rough edges help create a crispier texture when frying.

Step 2: Make the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder. Mix well.
2. Gradually add water while whisking until you achieve a slightly runny batter consistency.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

1. Add chunks of tofu into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Fry the Tofu

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil.
2. Once hot, carefully add tofu pieces one by one.
3. Fry for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
4. Transfer fried tofu onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

1. In another mixing bowl, combine all sauce ingredients and stir until well blended.
2. Pour the sauce into a skillet over medium heat and simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring. Remove excess oil if using the same skillet as before.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

1. Once the sauce thickens after simmering, add in the crispy tofu pieces.
2. Gently mix until all pieces are evenly coated in sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) over steamed white or brown rice for a delightful meal! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in many creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The fluffy texture of white rice complements the sauce perfectly, soaking up all the flavors.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and additional nutrients.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair your dish with a mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad with a citrus dressing can balance the richness of the orange sauce.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap tofu pieces for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Tortilla Wraps: For a heartier option, fill whole wheat tortillas with tofu and veggies for an easy meal on the go.

As an Appetizer

• Tofu Skewers: Serve skewers of crispy tofu drizzled with the orange sauce as delightful finger food at parties.
• Mini Tofu Bites: Cut tofu into bite-sized pieces and serve them with toothpicks for easy sharing.

How to Perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

To achieve the best Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), consider these essential tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Firm Tofu: Use firm or extra-firm tofu for better texture. This prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
• Double Coat Your Tofu: For extra crispiness, coat your tofu twice with the batter before frying.
• Heat Your Oil Properly: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding tofu; this prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden brown color.
• Simmer Sauce Well: Allow the orange sauce to simmer long enough to thicken. This enhances flavor and ensures it clings well to the tofu.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to modify the sugar level based on your sweetness preference. Start with less and add more if needed.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with sesame seeds or green onions for an appealing presentation and added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Pairing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Vegetable Fried Rice: A colorful medley of veggies mixed into fried rice makes for a satisfying pairing.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs adds protein while balancing flavors.
3. Garlic Green Beans: Quick sautéed garlic green beans offer a simple yet flavorful side that contrasts nicely with sweetness.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad brings a cool crunch that balances the rich taste of the main dish.
5. Miso Soup: This warm soup offers umami flavors that complement the sweet notes of the orange chicken beautifully.
6. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower provides a hearty side that pairs well without overpowering the main dish.
7. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies add freshness and crunch, making them an excellent appetizer or side option.
8. Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly cooked bok choy adds color and nutrients while complementing Asian flavors effortlessly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not pressing the tofu – Failing to press the tofu can lead to a soggy texture. Make sure to press and pat dry your tofu before cooking for a firmer bite.
• Using too much oil – Overusing oil can make your dish greasy. Use just enough oil to fry the tofu without drowning it.
• Skipping the sauce simmering – Rushing through the sauce preparation may result in a lack of flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 5 minutes for better taste.
• Underestimating the frying time – Not frying the tofu long enough can leave it soft instead of crispy. Ensure you fry each side until golden brown for that perfect crunch.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements – Using incorrect amounts of ingredients can throw off the balance of flavors. Always measure carefully, especially for sugar and vinegar in the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) that might help you out.

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?

Yes! You can substitute tofu with other plant-based proteins like tempeh or seitan if desired.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) gluten-free, use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

What can I serve with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa, and you can also add stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the Sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your personal spice preference.

How long does it take to prepare Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different spices and sides. Whether you’re a long-time tofu lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and explore various ways you can adapt it to suit your taste!