Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu
Highlighted under: Vitality Meal Guide
Discover the vibrant flavors of our Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu, a delightful dish that balances sweet and savory elements perfectly.
This Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu is a perfect blend of crispy tofu coated in a luscious orange glaze that is both sweet and tangy. It's quick to prepare and makes a delightful meal any day of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty orange flavor that elevates the dish
- Crispy tofu that contrasts beautifully with the sticky glaze
- A healthy, plant-based option that is satisfying and delicious
A Flavorful Journey
Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu takes your taste buds on an exciting journey through a medley of vibrant flavors. The bright notes of fresh orange juice and zest meld beautifully with the savory aspects of soy sauce, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite of this dish is an explosion of taste, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dinner table or a delightful addition to your meal prep.
This recipe not only pleases your palate but also offers a visual feast. The golden-brown tofu coated in a glistening orange glaze creates an eye-catching presentation. Pair it with a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, and you have a plate that is as gorgeous as it is delicious. It's a dish that invites everyone to gather around and share in the experience.
Health Benefits of Tofu
Tofu is not just a versatile ingredient; it's also packed with health benefits. As a plant-based protein source, it is low in calories yet high in protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. It contains essential amino acids and is rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, contributing to strong bones and overall health.
Additionally, incorporating tofu into your meals can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Its ability to absorb flavors means that it can easily take on the delicious sticky orange glaze, creating a dish that is both nutritious and indulgent.
Perfect Pairings
This Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice, which offers a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy glaze. Alternatively, toss it with whole-grain noodles for a heartier option that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables on the side. The crunchiness of veggies like snap peas or bell peppers can enhance the texture of the dish, providing a balanced and colorful plate that is sure to impress. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu:
For the Tofu
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Orange Glaze
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu:
Prepare the Tofu
Cut the pressed tofu into cubes and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Cook the Tofu
In a non-stick 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 from skillet and set aside.
Make the Orange Glaze
In the same skillet, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
Thicken the Glaze
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2 minutes.
Combine
Add the crispy tofu back to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Serve
Serve the Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu over rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly can extend their freshness. Allow the Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the tofu's texture and glaze integrity.
For those who enjoy meal prepping, this dish is perfect for preparing in advance. Make a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Just remember that the glaze might thicken upon refrigeration, so you can add a splash of water when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas can easily be tossed in during the final cooking stage to enhance the nutrition and flavor profile.
You can also adjust the sweetness of the glaze by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha. This dish can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider garnishing the Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Not only do these additions provide an appealing visual contrast, but they also add layers of flavor that enhance the overall dish.
For a complete Asian-inspired meal, serve the tofu alongside miso soup or a refreshing cucumber salad. This combination will not only impress your guests but also provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan dish.
→ What can I serve with Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu?
It's delicious over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles, and pairs well with stir-fried vegetables.
→ Can I use a different protein instead of tofu?
Yes, you can substitute the tofu with tempeh or chicken for a different variation.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu
Discover the vibrant flavors of our Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu, a delightful dish that balances sweet and savory elements perfectly.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Vitality Meal Guide
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tofu
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Orange Glaze
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
How-To Steps
Cut the pressed tofu into cubes and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
In a non-stick 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 from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2 minutes.
Add the crispy tofu back to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Serve the Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu over rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 12g