Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Fried tofu in a sweet and sour homemade orange sauce, this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious plant-based meal. It’s easy to make and will impress your family and friends at any gathering. With its crispy texture and vibrant flavors, this recipe can convert even the biggest tofu skeptics into fans. Enjoy it over rice for an ideal dinner option that’s both satisfying and delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh orange juice, garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the tofu.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served at gatherings, this dish fits seamlessly into various occasions.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy all the comfort of traditional Chinese takeout without the guilt, keeping it plant-based and nutritious.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy tofu coated in sweet orange sauce.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the tofu.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for batter and sauce keeps preparation organized and efficient.
• Whisk: This tool is crucial for mixing ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth batter without lumps.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), gather these ingredients:

For the Tofu Coating

• 1/2 cup of neutral oil (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 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

Press and pat dry the tofu. No need to press if you use Trader Joe’s High Protein Tofu. Break the tofu into small 1-inch nuggets. The rough edges help create a crispier texture.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Add the flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder to a mixing bowl. Mix well. Add water gradually while whisking until a slightly runny batter forms.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

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

Step 4: Fry the Tofu

Turn a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Once hot, add battered tofu pieces one by one. Fry for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Place cooked tofu on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In another mixing bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Stir until well mixed. Add this mixture to a skillet over medium heat. Simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring regularly.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once thickened, gently add crispy tofu pieces into the sauce. Mix well until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Over Rice

• Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a classic presentation. The rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Toss with stir-fried noodles for a heartier option. Use your favorite Asian-style noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, to complement the flavors.

As a Wrap

• Wrap in lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy alternative. This adds a refreshing crunch while keeping the dish light and healthy.

On a Salad

• Add the tofu on top of mixed greens for a vibrant salad. Drizzle with extra dressing for additional flavor and texture.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Perfecting your Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) takes practice, but these tips can help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Choose the right tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during frying and has a satisfying texture.
• Press the tofu: If using regular tofu, press it beforehand to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispiness when frying.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with water before adding it to the skillet.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices or adjust the sweetness of the sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve the dish right after coating the tofu in sauce; it tends to become soggy if left too long.
• Garnish wisely: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can elevate both flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Pairing side dishes with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli drizzled with sesame oil adds crunch and nutrients to balance the dish.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice mixed with vegetables makes a perfect accompaniment that complements the sweet sauce.
3. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies provide a delicious appetizer option alongside this main dish.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the warm tofu.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with herbs adds protein and texture while being gluten-free.
6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can cleanse your palate between bites of flavorful vegan orange chicken.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled until slightly charred offer an elegant touch to your dinner plate.
8. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic deliver both flavor and color, enhancing your overall meal presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), avoid these common mistakes that can affect flavor and texture.

• Not pressing the tofu – Failing to press the tofu can lead to a soggy texture. Always press it to remove excess moisture for better frying results.
• Using too much oil – Overloading your skillet with oil can make the tofu greasy. Use just enough oil to coat the pan for frying, ensuring crispy pieces without excess fat.
• Skipping the batter – Neglecting to coat the tofu in batter means it may not achieve that desirable crispy coating. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for texture.
• Rushing the sauce preparation – Hurrying through making the sauce can result in an uneven flavor. Allow time for the ingredients to combine well and simmer properly.
• Overcooking or undercooking the tofu – Cooking tofu for too long makes it tough, while not cooking it enough can leave it chewy. Aim for golden brown on both sides for perfect texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can lead to bland results. Always sample your sauce and adjust flavors as needed before adding tofu.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 1 month for optimal freshness and taste.

Reheating Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu).

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on tofu, you can substitute with tempeh or seitan for different textures.

How spicy is Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

The spice level depends on your use of Sriracha. You can adjust it based on your preference by adding more or leaving it out entirely.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance flavors.

Is Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.

How do I customize the sauce?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like sesame oil, additional citrus juices, or even sweeteners like maple syrup according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various veggies or spices based on your preferences. Give it a try and transform any meal into a delightful experience!