Vegan orange chicken: the ultimate plant-based twist on a classic

Indulge in the savory and vibrant flavors of traditional orange chicken, now made entirely plant-based with this tantalizing vegan recipe. This dish combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply seeking a delicious and healthy alternative, this orange chicken recipe vegan will surely impress.

Ingredients

For the Vegan Chicken:

• 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the crumbled tofu, soy sauce, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the tofu is evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Vegan Chicken

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add the tofu mixture and spread it out evenly in the pan.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

• In a separate saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, vegetable broth, soy sauce, maple syrup, cornstarch, rice vinegar, orange zest, sesame oil, and ground ginger.
• Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

• Once the tofu is cooked and the sauce has thickened, add the tofu to the saucepan with the sauce.
• Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tofu is heated through and coated in the orange sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or sesame seeds.
• Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as brown rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Perfection

• For a crispier vegan chicken, press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture before crumbling it.
• If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can substitute it with 1 tablespoon of vegetable broth powder.
• Adjust the sweetness of the orange sauce by adding more or less maple syrup to taste.
• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the orange sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the orange sauce.
• Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of pineapple juice to the orange sauce and omit the sesame oil.
• Teriyaki Orange Chicken: Substitute the soy sauce in the orange sauce with teriyaki sauce.

Health Benefits of Vegan Orange Chicken

• Rich in plant-based protein: Tofu is an excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Low in saturated fat: This recipe uses vegetable oil instead of animal fat, making it a healthier alternative to traditional orange chicken.
• High in fiber: Orange juice and vegetables provide dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and promotes satiety.
• Antioxidant-rich: Oranges are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radicals.

Key Points: A Vegan Twist on a Classic

This orange chicken recipe vegan is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based cuisine. It offers a satisfying and flavorful alternative to traditional orange chicken, without compromising on taste or nutritional value. Whether you’re a vegan enthusiast or simply seeking a healthier option, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use a different type of tofu for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any type of tofu you prefer. However, extra-firm tofu will provide the best texture and crispiness.

Q: What can I substitute for soy sauce?
A: You can substitute soy sauce with tamari, coconut aminos, or liquid aminos.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.

Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes, you can freeze the orange chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.