Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu

Name: Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

Experience the delicious fusion of flavors with this Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu. Perfectly crispy tofu coated in a sweet and tangy orange glaze, this dish is sure to impress.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-30T15:14:28.344Z

This Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu recipe combines the delightful sweetness of orange with the savory notes of soy sauce, making it a perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The crispy tofu provides a satisfying texture that complements the sticky glaze.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Crispy tofu that contrasts beautifully with the sticky glaze
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
Healthy and packed with plant-based protein

      

The Perfect Plant-Based Dish

Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu is not just a meal; it's an experience. This dish showcases the versatility of tofu, transforming it into a delicious protein-packed option that even non-vegetarians will enjoy. The combination of crispy tofu and a vibrant orange glaze creates a dish that is visually appealing and packed with flavor. It's a wonderful way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Tofu often gets a bad rap for being bland, but with the right preparation and seasoning, it can be incredibly satisfying. This recipe elevates tofu with a zesty orange glaze that brings out its natural flavors. The result is a dish that’s not only nutritious but also bursting with sweetness and tanginess, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight dinners.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Tofu

Achieving the perfect crispy texture with tofu begins with the right type. Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for this recipe as it holds its shape during cooking. Make sure to drain and press the tofu well to remove excess moisture, which can prevent it from crisping up properly. A light coating of cornstarch before frying adds an extra layer of crunch that enhances the dish's overall texture.

When frying the tofu, be sure to use enough oil and preheat the skillet for optimal results. A medium-high heat ensures that the tofu cooks quickly, creating a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook the tofu in batches if necessary to allow for even cooking and crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. The sweet and tangy glaze complements the earthiness of brown rice or the crunch of steamed broccoli, creating a balanced plate that is both satisfying and nutritious.

For a more adventurous twist, serve the tofu with rice noodles tossed in a light sesame dressing. This combination not only enhances the flavors of the dish but also adds a delightful texture. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions to elevate the presentation and add a hint of freshness.

Ingredients

For the Tofu

14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Glaze

1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Enjoy this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Tofu

Cut the pressed tofu into cubes and toss them in cornstarch until evenly coated.

Cook the Tofu

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Glaze

In the same skillet, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Thicken the Glaze

Slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Serve immediately with your choice of rice or noodles.

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor!

Nutritional Benefits

This Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans. It's rich in essential amino acids, iron, and calcium, supporting overall health and wellness. By incorporating this dish into your diet, you can enjoy a tasty meal while fueling your body with nutrients.

The orange glaze brings additional health benefits, as oranges are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. This makes the dish not only flavorful but also a great way to boost your immune system. Plus, the use of fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger adds further health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize the Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu to suit your taste preferences. If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze. Alternatively, you can switch up the flavor profile by using lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice for a different citrus twist.

For those who prefer a different protein, this recipe can easily be adapted to include tempeh or even seitan. Both options will absorb the glaze beautifully and provide a satisfying texture. You can also experiment with adding vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet for added nutrition and color, making this dish even more vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of protein instead of tofu?

Yes, you can substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free version.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables.