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: 16 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Recipes

Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that brings vibrant flavors into your meals. Perfectly crispy tofu is coated in a rich orange glaze, making it a delightful addition to any dining table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-29T14:43:27.781Z

This Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu recipe combines the savory taste of tofu with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. The glaze thickens beautifully, coating each tofu cube in a shiny, flavorful layer.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and tangy orange flavor that brightens up the dish
Crispy tofu texture with a sticky glaze
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Flavorful Twist on Tofu

Tofu often gets a bad rap for being bland, but when prepared correctly, it can be a delicious star of any meal. Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu takes this versatile ingredient and elevates it with a vibrant, zesty orange glaze. The combination of sweet and savory elements creates an irresistible dish that will delight your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Whether you're a tofu enthusiast or a newcomer, this recipe will show you just how tasty tofu can be.

The orange glaze is key to this dish's success. It adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the crispy texture of the tofu beautifully. The use of fresh orange juice and zest ensures that the glaze is bursting with citrus goodness, while the soy sauce and maple syrup balance the flavors perfectly. This glaze not only coats the tofu but also enhances the overall dining experience, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or even meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish fits the bill. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or fresh vegetables, allowing you to create a complete meal that satisfies your cravings and nourishes your body.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. In just a matter of minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a stunning dish that looks and tastes gourmet. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weekdays when time is limited but you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. Plus, it's a great way to introduce more plant-based options into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Customization and Tips

One of the great aspects of Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding different spices or ingredients. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat, while sesame oil can add a nutty richness. You can also swap out the tofu for other protein sources, like tempeh or seitan, to suit your dietary preferences.

For the best results, ensure that your tofu is properly drained and pressed before cooking. This removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to achieve that coveted crispy texture when fried. Additionally, don’t skip the cornstarch coating—it creates a perfect barrier that locks in moisture while forming a delightful crust. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to impress anyone who tries your Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu!

Ingredients

For the Tofu

16 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
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu

Cut the pressed tofu into cubes. Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated.

Fry the Tofu

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

Make the Glaze

In the same skillet, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer.

Thicken the Glaze

Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and stir until the glaze thickens, about 2 minutes.

Combine Tofu and Glaze

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve the Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu over rice or noodles and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu experience, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside a vibrant vegetable stir-fry. The rice will soak up the delicious orange glaze, making each bite more satisfying, while the vegetables add a pop of color and nutrients. For an extra touch, garnish your dish with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing this dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy slaw. The coolness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the glazed tofu, creating a well-balanced meal that's both hearty and light. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also provides a variety of textures that make each bite exciting.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Sticky Orange Glazed Tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating it in a skillet over medium heat will help retain its crispy texture, allowing you to enjoy the dish almost as if it were freshly made. If you find the glaze has thickened, simply add a splash of water or more orange juice to loosen it up while reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked tofu, though it may alter the texture slightly. To freeze, allow the tofu to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it!

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 and flavor.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are vegan-friendly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.