Elevate your tofu game: how to make orange chicken with a twist

Orange chicken, a beloved dish known for its sweet, tangy flavor and crispy texture, can be transformed into a delectable vegan delight using tofu. This comprehensive guide will lead you through the steps of creating this flavorful masterpiece with tofu, ensuring a satisfying and guilt-free culinary experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu:

• Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Press down firmly to remove excess moisture.
• Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

2. Coat the Tofu:

• In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch and tofu cubes. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Fry the Tofu:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Carefully add the tofu cubes and fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the tofu from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

4. Create the Orange Sauce:

• In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper.
• Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.

5. Combine the Tofu and Sauce:

• Add the fried tofu cubes to the saucepan with the orange sauce.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tofu is heated through and coated with the sauce.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the orange tofu chicken over rice or noodles.
• Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Use extra-firm tofu for a firmer texture.
• Press the tofu thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible.
• Fry the tofu in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the tofu, as it can become rubbery.
• Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your desired sweetness level.

Variations:

Spicy Orange Tofu Chicken:

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of Sriracha or chili powder to the orange sauce.

Honey Orange Tofu Chicken:

• Replace the brown sugar with 1/4 cup of honey.

Sesame Orange Tofu Chicken:

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish.

Benefits of Using Tofu:

• Tofu is a versatile plant-based protein source.
• It is low in calories and fat.
• Tofu is a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium.
• It is cholesterol-free and gluten-free.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?

• No, regular tofu is too soft and will not hold its shape well when fried.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?

• Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to the sauce and cook until thickened.

3. Can I freeze the orange tofu chicken?

• Yes, you can freeze the tofu chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.