Vegan Orange Tofu

**Vegan Orange Tofu Recipe: A Delicious Plant-Based Twist on a Classic Dish**

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious dish that will satisfy your cravings for something zesty and sweet, Vegan Orange Tofu is the perfect choice! This recipe gives the classic Chinese-inspired orange chicken a plant-based makeover using tofu, a protein-packed, versatile, and heart-healthy ingredient. It’s the perfect combination of crispy tofu, tangy orange sauce, and a medley of fresh vegetables.

This dish is quick, easy to prepare, and full of bold flavors that can rival any takeout meal. Plus, it’s fully vegan, gluten-free (if you choose the right soy sauce), and packed with essential nutrients. So, whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply someone looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

### The Basics of Vegan Orange Tofu

Vegan Orange Tofu is inspired by the sweet, citrusy, and tangy orange sauce that you typically find with orange chicken or orange beef in many Chinese restaurants. However, instead of meat, tofu becomes the star ingredient in this plant-based version.

The dish usually features:

– **Tofu**: Firm tofu is the best choice for this dish, as it holds up well to the stir-fry process and the sauce.
– **Orange Sauce**: The sauce is a key element. It’s made with fresh orange juice, zest, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or maple syrup.
– **Vegetables**: While optional, adding some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and broccoli adds color and texture to the dish.
– **Rice or Noodles**: This dish is typically served with steamed rice or noodles to complete the meal.

### Ingredients Needed for Vegan Orange Tofu

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

#### For the Tofu:
– 1 block of firm tofu (around 14 oz), pressed to remove excess water
– 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for extra crispiness)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)

#### For the Orange Sauce:
– 1 cup of fresh orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
– Zest of 1 orange
– 3 tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)
– 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or sugar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (to thicken the sauce)
– Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

#### For Garnishing:
– Sliced green onions (scallions)
– Toasted sesame seeds
– Orange slices or zest for extra garnish (optional)

#### For the Side:
– Cooked rice or noodles (your choice)

### Preparation Steps

#### Step 1: Pressing the Tofu

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to press the tofu to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This will help the tofu absorb the flavors of the sauce and become crispy when cooked.

1. Place the block of tofu on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Cover it with another towel and place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet or a few cans) on top.
2. Let it press for about 15-20 minutes. If you have a tofu press, use it to make this process faster and more efficient.

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