Easy Orange Tofu Recipe

This Easy Orange Tofu is crispy, tangy, and full of flavor. Golden-fried tofu cubes are tossed in a sweet, zesty orange sauce made with fresh juice, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, then served over steamed rice for a quick and satisfying meal. Inspired by classic American-Chinese takeout, this plant-based version is ready in just 25 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange tofu is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and citrusy flavors with a delightful crunch in every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavorful enough to impress guests.

• Quick and easy, ready in 25 minutes

• Vegan-friendly and dairy-free

• Crispy tofu with a glossy orange glaze

• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors

• Uses fresh orange juice for brightness

• Restaurant-style, but healthier and homemade

• Customizable with veggies or grains

• Kid-friendly and fun to eat

• Protein-rich plant-based meal

• Comfort food with a citrus twist

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crispy tofu:

• 250 g tofu, pressed and cubed

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder

For the orange sauce:

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated

• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1½ cups fresh orange juice

• 1 cup water or vegetable stock

• Zest of 1 orange

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 2 teaspoons cane sugar

• 1½ tablespoons cornstarch

• 3 tablespoons water (for slurry)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For garnish:

• 1 scallion, thinly sliced

• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

• 4 orange slices

Directions

1. Prepare the tofu: Wrap tofu in paper towels to remove excess water. Let sit a few minutes, then cut into medium-sized cubes.

2. Coat the tofu: Toss cubes in five-spice powder and cornstarch until evenly coated.

3. Fry the tofu: Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry tofu in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

4. Make the sauce: In another pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes. Stir in turmeric and cook 2 more minutes.

5. Add liquids: Pour in orange juice, stock or water, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Simmer 4–5 minutes.

6. Thicken the sauce: Mix cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water to form a slurry. Stir into the sauce and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.

7. Combine tofu and sauce: Add fried tofu and sesame oil. Toss to coat evenly.

8. Serve: Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and orange slices. Serve over steamed rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Veggie add-in: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch.

• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

• Extra spicy: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.

• Baked tofu: Instead of frying, bake tofu cubes at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Sticky glaze: Add extra cornstarch slurry for a thicker, stickier coating.

• Nutty twist: Sprinkle toasted cashews or peanuts on top.

• Brown rice base: Serve with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.

• Citrus mix: Combine orange with a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.

• Sweetener swap: Use maple syrup or agave instead of cane sugar.

• Air fryer option: Cook tofu cubes at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave. For best crispiness, reheat tofu in the oven or air fryer before tossing with sauce.

• Freeze: Not recommended, as tofu and sauce may lose texture.

FAQs

Do I need to press the tofu?

Yes, pressing removes water so the tofu becomes crispier when fried.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter version.

What type of tofu is best?

Extra-firm tofu works best for this recipe since it holds its shape.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before adding tofu.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar or use unsweetened orange juice for a tangier flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by swapping soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh juice is best, but bottled juice works in a pinch—choose one without added sugar.

What can I serve with orange tofu?

Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables pair well.

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?

Yes, try tempeh, seitan, or even chickpeas for variation.

How do I keep tofu crispy in sauce?

Add tofu to the sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

This Easy Orange Tofu Recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a takeout favorite at home. With its crispy tofu, vibrant orange sauce, and fragrant garnishes, it’s a satisfying plant-based meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will quickly become a regular in your kitchen.