Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, then you’ll absolutely adore this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) recipe! This delightful meal brings together crispy tofu nuggets coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s one of those recipes that has the power to convert even the most reluctant tofu haters into fans! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

The beauty of this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) lies not only in its vibrant flavors but also in how easy it is to whip up. In about 30 minutes, you can serve a plate of deliciousness that everyone will love. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mouthwatering flavors and crispy texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the tofu and sauce ahead of time, so you can enjoy a stress-free dinner later.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy makes every bite a taste sensation.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles, or even toss it into a stir-fry for added variety!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find everything you need for this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look:

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

The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using tempeh instead of tofu for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli while cooking the tofu for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the heat level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your spice tolerance—more for heat, less for mild flavor!
• Citrus twist: Experiment with other juices like pineapple or lemon to give your sauce a unique spin.

How to Make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Press and pat dry the tofu to remove excess moisture. If you’re using Trader Joe’s High Protein Tofu, you can skip this step! Breaking it into small 1-inch nuggets helps create more surface area for crispiness when frying.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder. Whisk in enough water until you’ve got a slightly runny batter. This texture will help create that wonderful crunch when frying.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

Gently add your tofu chunks into the batter. Make sure they’re evenly coated so every bite brings that delightful crunch along with it!

Step 4: Frying Time!

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place each piece of batter-coated tofu into the skillet. Fry them until they’re golden brown—about 5-6 minutes on each side. When done, let them rest on paper towels to catch any excess oil.

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

In another mixing bowl, combine all your sauce ingredients until well mixed. Pour this zesty concoction into a skillet set over medium heat. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes while stirring; this helps develop those rich flavors!

Step 6: Combine Tofu and Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, gently fold in your crispy tofu pieces. Make sure each nugget gets beautifully coated with that scrumptious sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Vegan Orange Chicken over fluffy steamed white or brown rice. Dig in and savor every bite—you’ve earned it!

With just a few simple steps and some wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a meal that’s not only delicious but also good for you! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with loved ones; I promise they won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Creating the perfect Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Choose the right tofu: Using firm or extra-firm tofu ensures that your nuggets hold their shape during frying and achieve that crispy texture we all love.
• Let the batter rest: Allowing your batter to sit for a few minutes can help it adhere better to the tofu, resulting in a crunchier coating once fried.
• Fry in batches: To avoid overcrowding the skillet, fry your tofu in small batches. This allows each piece to cook evenly and get that beautiful golden brown color without steaming.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of sugar you add to your sauce can be tailored to your preference. Start with less sugar and taste as you go; you can always add more if you’d like it sweeter!
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a huge difference in flavor. If possible, opt for freshly grated ginger instead of powdered for an extra punch.

How to Serve Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)

Serving your Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) beautifully can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some fun ideas to present this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of sliced green onions adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the sweetness of the orange sauce.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a subtle nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Fresh cilantro: A few cilantro leaves on top bring an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fragrant aroma of jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy flavors of the orange chicken, making it an ideal base for this dish.
• Garlic sautéed bok choy: This quick side dish adds vibrant greens and a crunchy texture, complementing the richness of the fried tofu while offering nutritional benefits.
• Crispy vegetable spring rolls: These delightful bites are filled with fresh vegetables and offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft tofu.
• Stir-fried mixed vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with light soy sauce makes for a nutritious addition that enhances both flavor and presentation.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)! Enjoy every moment spent at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) is perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy it fresh or store it for later, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the tofu and sauce in separate airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen orange chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
• Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious dish!

Can I use different types of tofu for Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

Absolutely! Firm or extra-firm tofu works best as they hold their shape during cooking. Silken tofu may not yield the same crispy texture.

How can I make Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce or omit the Sriracha and red pepper flakes. You can also add more orange juice to balance the heat!

What side dishes pair well with Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu)?

Serve this dish over steamed rice or quinoa. It also goes wonderfully with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Vegan Orange Chicken (Tofu) as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to introduce someone to the wonders of tofu while indulging in a bright and flavorful meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or part of your meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!