Do you enjoy the delightful flavors of Chinese cuisine but are looking for a plant-based alternative to classic dishes like orange chicken? Look no further than this delicious recipe for Crispy Orange Tofu. This vegan twist on a popular Chinese favorite offers a perfect balance of tangy citrus and savory tofu, all coated in a crispy, golden shell. It’s a delightful dish that will surely satisfy your cravings for something flavorful and comforting. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
**Crispy Orange Tofu**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
– Zest of 1 orange
– Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Start by cutting the tofu into cubes or rectangles, depending on your preference. Coat the tofu pieces in cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly and thoroughly coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated tofu pieces to the pan in a single layer. Cook until golden and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Transfer the crispy tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
3. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this sauce mixture into the pan with the garlic and ginger. Bring it to a simmer.
5. Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
6. Toss in the orange zest, mixing it into the sauce.
7. Return the crispy tofu to the pan, gently tossing it in the orange sauce until well coated.
8. Once the tofu is heated through and coated with the sauce, remove the pan from the heat.
9. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color.
10. Serve the Crispy Orange Tofu over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy this delicious Chinese-inspired dish!
Whether you’re a vegan, trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or simply looking for a new and tasty recipe to try, this Crispy Orange Tofu will surely impress your taste buds. The crispy texture of the tofu paired with the zesty orange sauce creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Try making this recipe for a cozy night in or a special gathering with loved ones – it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
