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Crispy Orange Tofu

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A plant-based twist on orange chicken, this dish features crispy baked or air-fried tofu tossed in a sweet, tangy, and savory orange sauce. Served with rice and greens, it’s light yet satisfying comfort food.

Ingredients

  • 1 pack extra-firm tofu, drained, pressed lightly, and ripped into 12” pieces
  • 2 tbsp tapioca starch or cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • Oil spray
  • Orange Sauce: 2 tbsp tapioca starch or cornstarch, 2/3 cup fresh orange juice + zest, 1/2 cup water, 3 garlic cloves (minced), 3 tbsp coconut sugar, 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce, 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • To serve: Rice or cauliflower rice, steamed green veggies (bok choy or broccoli), sesame seeds, green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F.
  2. Rip tofu into bite-sized chunks, toss with starch and salt until coated.
  3. Spread tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake 25–30 minutes (or air fry 15–18 minutes), flipping halfway until golden and crispy.
  4. Meanwhile, whisk starch, orange juice, water, garlic, and coconut sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in tamari, lemon/lime juice, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Cook until thickened and glossy.
  6. Toss crispy tofu with orange sauce until coated.
  7. Serve over rice with steamed greens, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Notes

  • Use maple syrup instead of coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
  • Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
  • Marinate tofu in tamari before coating for deeper flavor.
  • Swap tofu with cauliflower florets for variation.
  • Toss tofu with sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.

Nutrition