Ever tried making tofu at home and ended up with something that tastes like… well, nothing? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But these sticky orange tofu bites are different. They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and covered in a glaze that’ll make you forget you’re eating plant protein.
These sticky orange tofu bites are the perfect balance between sweet and savory, thanks to the flavorful orange glaze made from fresh orange juice and zest. If you’re a fan of orange chicken, then you’ll love this orange tofu recipe! The secret? Coating the protein with cornstarch helps the glaze stick perfectly to each piece.
Whether you’re serving these tofu bites as appetizers with wooden picks or making them the star of dinner over brown rice, these saucy pieces deliver every time. The mild flavor becomes the ultimate backdrop for bold, tangy flavors that even skeptics will enjoy. This orange tofu recipe creates delicious results that are both sticky and flavorful.
Learn more about tofu’s nutritional benefits and discover why it’s such a versatile protein source.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package super-firm tofu, drained and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce, divided
- 4 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or avocado), divided
- ¼ teaspoon granulated garlic
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch plus 2½ teaspoons, divided
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated garlic
- ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- ¾ cup orange juice (from 3 medium oranges)
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 medium scallion, thinly sliced (2 tablespoons)
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Directions
Step 1
Slice the protein into 1-inch-thick slices. Press the slices dry with paper towels, then cut each slice into 1-inch cubes and transfer to a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon neutral oil and granulated garlic. Toss to coat, then sprinkle with 3 tablespoons cornstarch and toss again to create the base for your sticky tofu.
Step 2
Heat remaining 3 tablespoons neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crisped on all sides (about 12 minutes). Transfer these crispy pieces to a plate and wipe the skillet clean.
Step 3
Add sesame oil to the same skillet and heat over medium heat. Add grated garlic, ginger and crushed red pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add orange zest, orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar and remaining soy sauce for your glaze. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often.
Step 4
Whisk water and remaining cornstarch together in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the pan and cook, stirring often, until sauce thickens (about 1 minute). Watch it closely – it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon for perfect texture.
Step 5
Add the protein back to the pan and turn to coat in the orange sauce. Transfer your finished sticky orange tofu bites to a large plate, drizzle with any remaining sauce, and sprinkle with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving:
- Calories: 317
- Fat: 21g
- Carbs: 21g
- Protein: 13g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on cooking methods and specific ingredients used. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized nutrition advice.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten free?
Yes! Simply swap out the reduced-sodium soy sauce for reduced-sodium tamari.
What can I serve with these tofu bites?
If you want to turn these bites into a main dish, try serving them over your favorite whole grain like brown rice or quinoa. You could also toss them with sautéed veggies or enjoy them as part of a grain bowl or on top of a salad.
How should I store this sticky orange tofu?
These tofu bites are best eaten immediately so they don’t lose their crispiness; however, you can store them. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated. You won’t get the same crispiness as the day you make them, but they’ll still be delicious.
The Bottom Line
These results prove that plant protein doesn’t have to be boring. The combination of crispy texture and sweet-tangy glaze creates something special that works as both an appetizer and main dish. Plus, you’re getting complete plant-based protein along with nutrients like iron and calcium, and heart-healthy potassium from the fresh orange juice.
The best part? No added sugars needed – the natural sweetness from oranges does all the work. Give this recipe a try, and you might just convert a few doubters along the way with these amazing creations!