Sweet and Spicy Orange Tofu (Air Fried or Baked without Oil)

Platter of crispy tofu cubes tossed in orange sauce and garnished with green onions.

4.86 from 7 votes

Sweet and Spicy Orange Tofu (Air Fried or Baked without Oil)

Sticky vegan orange tofu is easy to make in the air fryer or oven. This oil-free recipe features crispy tofu cubes in a tangy and spicy sauce.

Prep Time15

Cook Time25

Total Time40

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Fusion

Special diet: gluten-free, nut-free, oil-free, vegan

Servings:

Calories: 94kcal

Author: Amy Katz

Ingredients

For the tofu:

14-16 ounces extra-firm tofu drained and pressed (or use super-firm tofu which does not require pressing)
1 Tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce, if not gluten-free)
1 Tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)

For the sauce:

½ cup water
⅓ cup orange juice
1 Tablespoon pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
1 teaspoon fresh garlic minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Slice the tofu into cubes. Place the cubes in a quart-size sealable storage bag (or use a storage container with a tight-fitting lid.) Add the tamari and seal the bag. Shake the bag until all the tofu is coated with the tamari.
1 Tablespoon tamari, 14-16 ounces extra-firm tofu
Add the tablespoon of cornstarch to the bag. Shake again until the tofu is coated. Set the tofu aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
Meanwhile add all the sauce ingredients to a small bowl and mix with a spoon. Set aside.
½ cup water, ⅓ cup orange juice, 1 Tablespoon pure maple syrup, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For air frying: Place the tofu in the air fryer in a single layer. You may need to do this in two batches, depending on the model you have. Cook the tofu at 390-400°F for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking it halfway though, until lightly browned and crispy.*
For baking: Spread the cubes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 425°F for for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly browned and crispy.
Place the cooked tofu in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Give the sauce a stir and pour it over the tofu. Stir the tofu and sauce until the sauce has thickened and the tofu is heated through.
Serve immediately with rice and vegetables, if desired.

Notes

*Cooking time in an air fryer may vary depending on the model you are using. Adjust the cook time until the tofu is golden brown and your desired level of crispness.

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition