Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers
Try this Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers recipe
Try this Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers recipe
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1/2 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 2 to 3 tsp cornstarch (use arrowroot to make corn-free add more starch for thicker sauce and glaze)
- 2 tbsp warm water (1/4 cup for thinner and more sauce)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or liquid aminos
- 2 tbsp maple syrup agave or 1 tbsp raw sugar
- 1 or more tbsp asian hot chili paste/sambal oelek or 2 tsp of sriracha (or to taste)
- zest of 1 cutie clementine or small orange
- juice of 1 cutie or orange (1/3+ cup)
- 1/2 package of firm tofu (14 oz) cubed, patted down with paper towels to remove excess moisture . i use nasoya non gmo organic.
- 2-3 cloves garlic finely chopped/sliced
- Carbohydrate 3.51496562673056 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 27.010062554783 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 3.49777125709353 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (47g)
- Sodium 1.20281250171582 mg
- Sugar 3.51496562673056 g
- Trans Fat 1.29573000262883 g
- Calories 255 calories
Step-by-step
- In a bowl, whisk cornstarch and water.
- Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple, hot chili sauce, orange juice and zest, and reserve.
- Heat oil in a very large nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add tofu to pan and cook, browning on most sides, about 6-8 minutes. Cover the pan if there is too much sputtering.
- Add garlic and sliced bell pepper or blanched veggies and cook for half a minute.
- Add the sauce and cook until sauce begins to bubble (2-4 minutes).
- Then reduce heat, cover and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Serve with rice or other grains.
- To make it with tempeh: Cube the Tempeh and cook for 10 minutes in ½ cup of boiling water + a tsp of Orange zest + 1 tsp asian chili paste or sriracha. Add the steamed tempeh to a pan with oil, garlic and veggies. Cook for a minute then add the sauce. Cook to thicken the sauce, them simmer covered for a few minutes and then serve.
Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a marathon. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and the never-ending to-do list, whipping up something elaborate is often out of the question. That's why I've become a huge fan of quick, easy, and flavorful recipes that don't compromise on nutrition or taste. This Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers recipe is a perfect example. It comes together in under 30 minutes, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with vibrant flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The best part? It’s completely adaptable to whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a truly versatile weeknight staple.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The orange zest and juice add a bright, citrusy note, while the chili paste provides a welcome kick. The tofu, pan-fried to perfection, absorbs the luscious sauce beautifully, resulting in tender, succulent pieces. I often add bell peppers for sweetness and color, but broccoli florets, sliced carrots, or even snow peas would be equally delicious. The flexibility of this recipe is what truly makes it shine. I can easily adjust the spice level based on my family's preferences – sometimes a little more heat is needed, other times a milder version hits the spot.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly adaptable. If I'm feeling extra ambitious, I might serve it over quinoa or brown rice for a more complete meal. Other times, I simply enjoy it as is, letting the bright flavors speak for themselves. It's perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a quick and easy meal prep option for the week ahead. The leftovers are just as tasty the next day, and they often get incorporated into my lunchbox for a quick and satisfying mid-day pick-me-up. It’s a recipe I can confidently hand to my teenager to make, knowing that it’s both easy to follow and incredibly delicious.
This recipe has become a firm favorite in our household. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With its vibrant colors, explosive flavors, and effortless preparation, this Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers dish has become a regular fixture on our dinner table. The ease of preparation and the satisfaction of creating a delicious and healthy meal in minimal time are truly rewarding. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients and a little culinary creativity can transform a weeknight dinner into a truly satisfying and enjoyable experience. It's become a testament to the power of simple, flavorful meals that don't demand hours of preparation time – a lifeline for a busy mom like myself.
Beyond its convenience, the nutritional benefits of this recipe are another key factor in its appeal. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. The vegetables add crucial vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded and healthy diet. This dish is not only delicious and easy to make but also a nutritious choice that nourishes my family while satisfying our taste buds. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a meal that everyone enjoys, regardless of dietary preferences. It’s proof that a simple, healthy meal can be both satisfying and delicious.
The versatility of this dish truly sets it apart. One day, I might use a different type of chili paste to adjust the spice level. Another day, I might experiment with different vegetables, such as broccoli or snow peas. The variations are endless, ensuring that this recipe never gets boring. And because it’s so adaptable, it fits perfectly into my ever-changing schedule and dietary needs. It's a recipe that's become a true reflection of my cooking style – simple, adaptable, and always delicious.
In conclusion, this Spicy Vegan Orange Tofu and Peppers recipe is more than just a dish; it's a testament to the power of simple, flavorful food. It's a recipe that's easy to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a versatile and convenient option for any busy weeknight. The vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients make it a meal that both nourishes and delights. I highly recommend giving it a try – you won't be disappointed.
Ingredients I Use:
I'm often asked about the ingredients I prefer. For the tofu, I tend to use Nasoya non-GMO organic tofu. It's firm enough to hold its shape during cooking, yet soft and tender enough to absorb the delicious sauce. For the chili paste, I tend to experiment with different brands, sometimes using a milder version, other times something with more of a kick. The beauty of this recipe is in its flexibility – feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your personal preferences and what's available in your pantry.
