Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu). This delightful meal combines crispy fried tofu with a zesty homemade orange sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. I can’t tell you how many times this dish has turned skeptics into tofu lovers! Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the vibrant flavors that come together so beautifully. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a plant-based meal without sacrificing taste. Let’s dive into why this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal any day of the week!
• Family-Friendly: Even kids who are usually picky eaters will love the sweet and tangy flavors of this dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and simply heat it up for an effortless dinner solution.
• Full of Flavor: The homemade orange sauce packs an amazing punch that complements the crispy tofu perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own; the choice is yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of items can create such a flavorful dish.

For the Tofu

• 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 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

Variations

This Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it your own!

• Swap the protein: Try using tempeh or seitan instead of tofu for a different texture and flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the citrus: Use lemon or lime juice if you want to switch up the flavor profile!
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more Sriracha or fresh chili peppers to kick things up a notch.

How to Make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

First things first! Start by pressing and patting dry your tofu. This helps remove excess moisture so it can crisp up beautifully when cooked. Cut the tofu into small 1-inch nuggets—those rough edges are key to getting that delightful crunch!

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder. Mix well! Then add water slowly until you achieve a runny yet slightly thick batter. This batter will give your tofu that irresistible crispy coating when fried.

Step 3: Fry the Tofu

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add your neutral oil. Once hot, carefully place each piece of battered tofu in the skillet. Fry them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. When they’re done, transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In another mixing bowl, combine all your sauce ingredients—orange juice, sugar, tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha (if using), ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cornstarch, and orange zest. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together.

Step 5: Cook the Sauce

Pour your delicious sauce mixture into a skillet over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring continuously. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and thicken just right.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened perfectly after simmering for at least five minutes, gently add in those crispy tofu pieces. Stir until every nugget is coated in that tasty orange goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally! Serve your Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful dish with family or friends!

With this simple recipe in hand, I hope you’ll find joy in making Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Making the perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is all about those little details that can take your dish from good to absolutely amazing! Here are some pro tips to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the right tofu: Using high-protein tofu or firm tofu will give you the best texture and help it hold up during frying. It’s less likely to break apart and absorbs flavors beautifully.

• Don’t rush the frying: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tofu. A properly heated pan creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. This step is key to achieving that desirable crunch.

• Mix sauce ingredients thoroughly: Ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely in your sauce will prevent graininess and help achieve a smooth, cohesive flavor. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

• Add fresh herbs for extra flavor: Consider adding freshly chopped green onions or cilantro just before serving. They add a pop of color and enhance that fresh, vibrant taste.

• Experiment with spice levels: If you enjoy heat, feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha or red pepper flakes according to your preference. This allows you to customize the dish to suit your taste buds!

How to Serve Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Presentation can elevate your meal from simple to sensational! When serving Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu), consider these ideas to make your dish as delightful visually as it is on the palate.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that complements the orange sauce beautifully.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an appealing texture.
• Cilantro leaves: Fresh cilantro not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely touch of green that brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up that delicious orange sauce, providing a soft contrast to the crispy tofu.

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried in garlic adds both nutrition and crunch, balancing out the richness of the orange chicken.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette brings freshness and texture, making it an ideal complement.

• Coconut Rice: For something different, try serving with coconut rice. The subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy orange flavors in this dish.

Now you’re all set to impress family and friends with this delightful Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)! Enjoying your meal is just as important as making it—so gather around the table and savor every bite together!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tofu and sauce in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, store tofu and sauce separately to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the tofu to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the tofu pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen tofu to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the tofu in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Add a splash of water or additional orange juice to keep the dish moist when reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish!

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu in Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

Absolutely! You can substitute tofu with tempeh or even chickpeas if you’re looking for a different texture or flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure your tamari or soy sauce is gluten-free as well. This will keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. Add some sautéed vegetables on the side for a complete meal!

Can I adjust the sweetness in Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

Certainly! Feel free to reduce or increase the sugar based on your personal preference. You can also try using maple syrup or agave syrup as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) recipe! It’s not only delicious but also a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based goodness that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, I’m sure it will become a staple in your home. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!