Sweet And Sour Tofu
Sweet and sour tofu features crispy tofu, colorful vegetables, pineapple chunks, and a tangy sauce, perfect for a flavorful vegetarian meal that pairs well with rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the tofu into 1-inch squares about 1/4-inch thick. Lightly brush a baking sheet with oil.
- Place the tofu squares on the sheet and brush the tops with remaining oil.
- Broil the tofu for 5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Steam the carrot slices and green pepper slices until tender.
- Combine the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of tamari in a bowl and mix thoroughly to remove lumps.
- In a large saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, the cornstarch-tamari mixture, and remaining tamari.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until thickened.
- Add the steamed vegetables, pineapple chunks, and baked tofu to the sauce.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of tamari and garlic powder before baking. You can substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a healthier option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce. Experimenting with different vegetables like broccoli or snap peas can also enhance the dish. This recipe is a great vegan alternative to traditional sweet and sour dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour tofu over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with steamed Chinese broccoli for added nutrition. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Chinese Fried Walnuts (Or Pecans) or a crisp salad. This dish is perfect for gatherings and goes well with other Chinese recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the tofu and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice to prevent drying out. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Tofu contains roughly 726 calories, with 16g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1952mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of tofu for this recipe?
While firm tofu works best for this recipe due to its ability to hold its shape, you can use extra-firm tofu for a denser texture. Silken tofu is not recommended as it will not hold up during baking and may become mushy in the sauce.
What can I substitute for tamari if I don't have it?
If you don't have tamari, you can substitute it with soy sauce. However, keep in mind that tamari is gluten-free, so if you're looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce instead. Adjust the amount to taste, as soy sauce can be saltier than tamari.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tofu and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, and you can reheat them together for a quick meal on busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).