Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Fried tofu in sweet and sour homemade orange sauce makes this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) an irresistible option for any meal. It’s not just a fantastic dish for dinner; it can impress at gatherings, serve as a comforting weeknight meal, or be enjoyed as leftovers. The crispy tofu coated in zesty orange sauce is sure to convert even the biggest tofu skeptics into fans!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Tofu Coating
• For the Orange Sauce
• How to Make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)
• Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
• Step 2: Make the Batter
• Step 3: Coat the Tofu
• Step 4: Fry the Tofu
• Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)
• With Steamed Rice
• In a Wrap
• As a Salad Topper
• With Noodles
• How to Perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)
• Best Side Dishes for Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)
• Reheating Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use another protein instead of tofu?
• How can I make this dish less sweet?
• Is this recipe gluten-free?
• Can leftovers be frozen?
• What should I serve with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The sweet and tangy orange sauce elevates the tofu, bringing out its best qualities.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even as a filling in spring rolls for a variety of meals.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with plant-based protein and vitamins from fresh ingredients.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful take on a classic dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Paper towels
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for frying the tofu evenly to achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining your batter and sauce without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth batter for coating your tofu without lumps.

Ingredients

Fried tofu in sweet and sour homemade orange sauce. I’m sure this dish can turn anyone who hates tofu into a tofu lover!

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

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 allow the dough to stay and become crisper.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Add the flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder to a mixing bowl. Mix well. Add water and whisk until batter forms. You want it to be a little runny but not too thick.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

Add chunks of tofu to the batter and coat evenly.

Step 4: Fry the Tofu

Turn a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu pieces one by one. Fry for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown. When ready, place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

Add all the sauce ingredients to a mixing bowl and stir until well combined. Add the sauce to a skillet over medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes while stirring. If you use the same skillet you used for frying, be sure to get the oil out first.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened and simmered for at least 5 minutes, add the crispy tofu. Mix into sauce until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

Serve over steamed white or brown rice and enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes, making your meal more enjoyable.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The classic choice that absorbs the delicious orange sauce.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with tofu and sauce for a crunchy bite.
• Tortilla Wraps: Fill tortillas with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) for a tasty handheld option.

As a Salad Topper

• Mixed Greens: Add pieces of tofu on top of mixed greens drizzled with sesame dressing for an easy salad.
• Cabbage Slaw: Toss crispy tofu in a crunchy cabbage slaw for extra texture and freshness.

With Noodles

• Stir-Fried Noodles: Toss Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) with stir-fried noodles and vegetables for a hearty meal.
• Rice Noodles: Serve it over rice noodles for a gluten-free option that complements the flavors.

How to Perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Creating the perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) requires some careful attention to detail. Follow these tips to make sure your dish turns out great every time.

• Choose the right tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during cooking and absorbs flavors better.
• Press the tofu: Removing excess moisture will allow the tofu to become crispier when fried.
• Make the batter lighter: Adjust water in your batter until it’s just runny enough; this helps achieve a light coating on each piece.
• Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tofu. Fry in small batches instead.
• Adjust sweetness: Customize the sugar level in your sauce based on personal preference for sweetness or tartness.
• Serve immediately: For optimal crispiness, enjoy your dish right after mixing it with the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Pairing side dishes with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Vegetable Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of vegetables and rice, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic add a crunchy contrast to the soft tofu.
3. Chow Mein Noodles: Crispy chow mein noodles are an excellent addition, bringing texture and flavor to your plate.
4. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar complements the richness of the dish.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides nutrition and balances out the sweet flavors of the orange chicken.
6. Miso Soup: This comforting soup warms up any meal and adds an umami kick alongside your vegan dish.
7. Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls offer an exciting crunch that pairs beautifully with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu).
8. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious side loaded with veggies that can add a healthy twist to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the pressing step: Many people forget to press the tofu, which can lead to a watery texture. Make sure to press and pat dry the tofu for the best results.
• Using too much oil: Overloading your skillet with oil can make the dish greasy. Use just enough neutral oil to fry the tofu evenly without excess.
• Not letting the sauce simmer: Some might rush the sauce, missing out on its rich flavor. Allow it to simmer for at least 5 minutes to develop depth.
• Inconsistent tofu size: Cutting tofu pieces too large or small can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for uniform 1-inch nuggets for consistent crispiness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste and adjust your sauce as you go. Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to tweak sweetness or spice levels.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, expect slight texture changes upon thawing.

Reheating Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat with a splash of oil. Add the tofu and stir-fry until heated and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another protein instead of tofu?

Yes! You can substitute tempeh or seitan if you prefer different textures in your Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu).

How can I make this dish less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, cut back on sugar and add more tamari or soy sauce for a savory balance.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Certainly! Follow proper freezing instructions, but remember that texture may change slightly after thawing.

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

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa, along with stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables. This comforting dish is sure to impress even those skeptical about tofu. Give it a try!