When we crave Chinese food, General Tso Tofu is our go-to recipe. Tofu is pan-fried and coated in a sweet, spicy, and savory General Tso’s sauce. This weeknight classic is best served over fluffy white risotto for ultimate taste buds bliss.
Table of Contents
What is General Tso?
Ingredients you'll need + Substitutions
Equipment Required
How to make the best General Tso Tofu
Serving Suggestions
Try one of these favorite sides to complete your meal:
Storage Instructions
FAQs about Recipes
More Tofu Recipes You May Enjoy
The Best General Tso Tofu Recipe Recipe
What is General Tso?
General Tso’s Chicken is one of the best-known Chinese takeouts in America. Peng Chang Kuei, a chef from 1955, named it after a Hunanese military general of the 19th century.
Although today's version of the original is not the same as the fried sweet version, the flavors are still bold and delicious. The whole family will enjoy it.
We're replacing the usual chicken protein with super crispy cubed Tofu, and combining it in our homemade General Tso sauce until sweet and sticky. This is the best vegan take on General Tso's chicken. We can't get enough of this plant-based version!
Ingredients you'll need + Substitutions
Tofu :Firm tofu or extra-firm cubes are best for this recipe. Tofu that is extra-firm can be used, but will not absorb the marinade well and taste less delicious.
Soy Sauce:This savory condiment gives both tofu, and homemade general Tso’s sauce a salty umami flavor. Tamari is a good choice if you're gluten-free.
Cornstarch Essential for crispy tofu, and thick, sticky sauce. If you're corn-free, use arrowroot instead. However, arrowroot can't withstand prolonged high temperatures. Wait until the last few minutes to add the arrowroot into the sauce.
AromaticsYou will need white pepper, red pepper flakes and fresh ginger. Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic are highly recommended. You can substitute black pepper for the fermented white or red pepper flakes.
Broth Vegetable broth is the base for the general Tso sauce. You can use bouillon cubes or store-bought veggie broth if you prefer. Use a broth with low sodium if you're sensitive to it.
VinegarAdding a acid to the sauce will help balance the umami and savory flavors, while keeping the sauce light. Our favorite is rice vinegar, but white vinegar also works well.
Hoisin:Hoisin is a Chinese condiment that's commonly used as a flavoring for stir-fries, Mu Shu pork, noodle dishes or spring rolls. It is a sauce with a unique, umami-rich, sweet, spicy flavor. This makes General Tso’s sauce stand out. Hoisin sauces can be vegan, but some may contain fish sauce or honey. Try this recipe for Vegan and Gluten Free Hoisin Sauce if you can't find store-bought sauce.
SugarA great General Tso’s sauce has a balance between sweet and salty. Brown sugar is the best choice for a deep, rich taste. Try light brown sugar, or even white sugar, if you want a sweeter flavor. Choose organic to make sure it's vegan.
Equipment Required
Large mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Cast-iron skillet or large frying pan
Whistler
Spatula
How to make the best General Tso Tofu
Press the tofu. Press the tofu block for 30 minutes using a tofu pressing or our favorite hack to press tofu without one. Once the tofu has been sufficiently pressed, slice it into 1-inch cubes. Transfer to a large serving bowl.
Coat the tofu. Add the salt, white pepper, and soy sauce to the large bowl. Mix gently until the tofu has been evenly coated. Mix the first half of cornstarch with the tofu, and then sprinkle the second half on top. Set aside.
Pan fry until golden. Add the oil to a large skillet and heat it over a medium low flame. Add the tofu cubes and cook on both sides until crispy and golden. Remove the tofu and place it aside.
Start preparing the General Tso sauce. In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, rice vinegar and vegan hoisin sauce with the vegetable broth. Set aside.
Toast the aromatics. In the same pan that you fried the tofu, sauté the garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant. As needed, add additional oil to avoid burning.
Add the sauce. Pour in the General Tso’s sauce and bring it to a boil once the aromatics have become fragrant.
Add the cornstarch slurry. Combine the warm water with the cornstarch in the same small bowl. Mix until smooth. Mix well. Add to the General Tso’s sauce simmering on low heat. Continue to simmer for 6-8 more minutes or until you reach the desired consistency.
Add the tofu. Add the tofu.
Serve. Serve this General Tso’s tofu with rice, green onions, and toasted sesame seed. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Tofu with General Tso is usually served over brown or white jasmine rice as a main dish. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal and can be reheated to make a simple lunch.
Try one of these favorite sides to complete your meal:
Appetizers & Sides
Simple Roasted Vegetables
Filipino
Easy Vegan Filipino Spring Rolls (Lumpiang Shanghai)
Gluten Free
Vegan Egg Fried rice
Gluten Free
Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry (Gluten Free Option)
Here are some examples!
Easy Vegetable Stir Fry
Edamame and Smashed Cucumber Salad
Storage Instructions
In the fridge, you can store leftover General Tso’s tofu in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days. Allow the tofu a chance to cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating. You can store this General Tso’s tofu in individual portions over rice and desired side dishes if you're preparing it for meal preparation.
This tofu dish shouldn't be frozen. This will alter the texture of the dish and cause excess moisture to drain when thawed, resulting in soggy food.
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the microwave, or on a large pan until heated through.
Recipe FAQs
What does General Tso Sauce taste like?
General Tso’s sauce can be described as a spicy, sweet, and savory sauce. You can customize the taste of General Tso’s sauce by making it from scratch. If you like a sweeter sauce, then add an extra teaspoon of brown sugar. Add more chili flakes if you like spicy food.
Is this vegan general Tso's Chicken gluten-free?
Use a gluten free soy sauce, such as tamari or a hoisin sauce that is gluten-free if you are gluten intolerant. Hoisin sauce in stores contains gluten, as it's made from soy sauce. However, there are gluten-free options available. Try the Kikkoman version!
Can i make general tso tofu crispy using an air fryer?
Yes! You can make crispy tofu using an air fryer. Check out our Easy Air Fried Herbed Tofu recipe for the cooking times and method.
More Tofu Recipes You May Enjoy
Easy Lemongrass Tofu is a delicious and quick tofu recipe.
Tofu Musubi: If you loved spam musubi as a child, then you must try this veganized version.
Tofu Sheet Pan Taco Meat is a great recipe for weeknights when you're busy.
Vegan Tofu Karaage, our Japanese fried chicken recipe that will blow you away!
Easy Crispy Tofu is a basic, classic tofu recipe that can be used in any dish.
Ginger Sesame Tofu is a gluten-free recipe for tofu that is packed with flavor.
If you recreate one of our recipes please tag us @sweetsimplevegan or @consciouschris on Instagram with the hashtag #sweetsimplevegan. We love to see photos!
When we crave Chinese food, General Tso Tofu is our go-to recipe. Tofu is pan-fried and coated in a sweet, spicy, and savory General Tso’s sauce. This weeknight classic is best served over fluffy white rice to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
Base Tofu Recipe
1
block firm tofu, pressed
1 tablespoon
soy sauce
2 tablespoons
cornstarch
Pinch of salt
Pinch of white pepper
3 tablespoons
avocado oil for frying
Sauce
3/4 cup
vegetable broth
1/4 cup
soy sauce
2 1/2 tablespoons
brown sugar
1 tablespoon
rice vinegar
1 tablespoon
vegan hoisin
1/4 teaspoon
white pepper
Remaining Ingredients
4
cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon
grated ginger, packed
1/2 teaspoon
red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon
cornstarch
¼ cup
warm water
1 1/2 teaspoons
toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup
sliced green onions, for garnish optional
Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
Press the tofu for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once pressed, cut into 1-inch cubes and transfer to a large bowl.
Add the soy sauce, salt, and white pepper, and gently mix. Sprinkle over half of the cornstarch, mix, add the second half, and mix. Set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-low, add the oil. Once heated, add the tofu and fry until golden. Remove tofu from pan and set aside.
To a small bowl, mix together all of the ingredients for the sauce. Set aside.
In the same skillet that you fried the tofu, add in the garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Add additional oil as needed. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the sauce and bring to a boil.
In a small bowl, mix together the warm water and cornstarch until smooth. Add it to the simmering sauce and whisk through. Allow the sauce to simmer, mixing often, until thick, about 6-8 minutes.
Add in the cooked tofu and sesame oil. Mix until well combined. Season with additional salt as needed.
Serve over rice with green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!
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The post The Best General Tso Tofu appeared initially on Sweet Simple Vegan.
By: Chris Petrellese Title: The Best General Tso’s Tofu Sourced From: sweetsimplevegan.com/general-tsos-tofu/ Published Date: Fri, 07 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a diet based on plants the same as a vegan one?
A plant-based diet does not mean you have to eat vegan. A plant-based diet is an eating plan that focuses on mainly consuming fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and whole grains. While this eating plan may not allow for the consumption of meat and dairy, small amounts of animal proteins might be allowed. Veganism is an ethical lifestyle that emphasizes a plant-based diet. It also avoids cosmetics and clothing made from animal products. Although vegans may also choose to adopt a plant based diet as part their lifestyle, they are separate concepts.
What are the benefits of a plant-based diet?
Plant-based diets can provide many benefits, including improved heart health and digestive health, higher energy levels, reduced stress hormones, greater environmental protection, and increased energy. Soy-based protein is made from legumes, beans and whole grains. It has higher fiber and lower levels of saturated fat than animal proteins. Plant-based diets are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This can protect cells from inflammation and oxidative damages that can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. A higher intake of fruits and vegetables may increase fiber intake. This can help feed the gut bacteria and improve digestion. Furthermore, research suggests that a plant-based diet may help improve moods by reducing stress hormones associated with consuming some animal proteins. A popular alternative method to combating environmental damage from factory farming is the transitioning away animal proteins.
Can children follow a plant-based diet?
Due to their numerous health benefits, plant-based diets have become increasingly popular with adults. But parents might be wondering if a diet based on plants is safe for their kids. If the diet is planned well and meets all their nutritional requirements, then children can eat a plant-based diet.
A plant-based diet can provide all the nutrients necessary for children to grow and thrive. However, children need to be able to get sufficient iron, calcium (vitamin D), vitamin B12, and protein. It is important to have adequate protein for growth and development. Tofu, beans, lentils, nuts, and tofu are all good sources of plant-based proteins. Fortified cereals and leafy greens contain iron, which is essential for healthy blood cells. Calcium is crucial for healthy bones and can be obtained from fortified plant milk, calcium-set tofu, and leafy greens. Vitamin D is important for bone health and can be obtained from fortified plant milk and sunlight exposure. Vitamin B12, which is essential for healthy nerves, blood cells and other body functions, can only be found in animal products. A B12 supplement may be necessary for children who are on a plant-based food diet.
It is also important to ensure that children on a plant-based diet consume enough calories to meet their energy needs. It is important for parents to provide a variety whole foods such as fruits, vegetables (including whole grains), legumes, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Children might need to eat more or less frequently to meet their energy needs.
It is recommended that parents consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure that their child's plant-based diet is nutritionally adequate. They can also help with meal planning and supplementation as well as determining the best portion sizes for their child.
The bottom line is that children can follow a planned plant-based diet that meets both their nutritional and physical needs. Parents can provide their children with a healthy and nutritious plant-based diet with proper planning and guidance from a healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
Can a plant based diet reduce the chance of developing chronic diseases?
Because of its many environmental and health advantages, plant-based eating is growing in popularity. It involves eating mainly fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds and eliminating or significantly reducing animal proteins like meat or dairy products. The benefits of a plant-based lifestyle include better heart health, improved digestion, energy levels and reduced stress hormones. It is possible to get sufficient protein by following a plant based diet.
What are some of the most common plant-based food?
A plant-based diet is gaining popularity due to its potential health and environmental benefits. Common plant-based foods are those derived from plants, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, dietary fiber, and other nutrients. A variety of beans and pulses are good sources for plant-based protein. These include chickpeas (or lentils), beans, chickpeas (or kidney beans), lower-fat soya products like tempeh and edamame, and higher-fat nuts like almonds. Other plant-based options include healthy fats like olive, avocado, flaxseed, or other nut oils. Additionally, many ready-to-eat meals are now available, which can further reduce your overall grocery cost. Depending on the amount of food you purchase, a plant-based diet can be cheaper than others.
Can I Eat Meat on A Plant-Based Diet?
Plant-based diets allow for certain foods that are not made up of animal products, such as fish, meat, and poultry. However, people who are on a plant diet can still eat eggs or dairy in moderation. There are many options for those who want to make the switch to a plant diet. Plant-based diets include fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes and lentils, whole grains like oatmeal and rice, as well as soybeans and lentils.
There are many grocery stores that sell vegan products. Soy-based meats such as tofu, seitan (wheat gluten), tempeh (fermented soybeans), and mock duck made from mushrooms can all mimic the flavor and texture of traditional meat dishes. There are many vegetarian burgers that have the same taste as beef burgers, including burgers made with black beans and quinoa.
Moreover, many plant-based alternatives exist for people who want more than just meal replacements for their carnivorous favorites. You can substitute vegan ingredients such as coconut bacon strips and eggplant bacon bits; tofu Mayo; veggie hotdogs with seasoned, textured soy protein; or faux chicken strips using wheat gluten. Some processed forms of fermented fungal species, like mushrooms, can be similar to steak and pork, but they are much more sustainable than livestock production. Ultimately, meat that one might once would have eaten could be safely replaced with these alternatives, making transitioning into a plant-based diet more manageable.
How do you replace the meat in a plant based diet?
There are many creative vegan alternatives that can replace meat in a plantbased diet. Tofu, seitan, tempeh (fermented soy beans), and mock duck made out of mushrooms can replicate the taste of traditional meats. Vegetarian vegetarian burgers made with black beans and/or quinoa taste just like beef burgers. You can also make tasty vegan alternatives using tofu mayo, coconut bacon strips, or eggplant bacon bits, and veggie hot dogs with seasoned texture soy protein. Also, faux chicken strips made of wheat gluten are delicious options. You can modify recipes to include vegetables, fruits, legumes, seeds, beans, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruits. Other cooking methods, such as roasting, steaming, or grilling, are great options to enjoy plant-based foods without sacrificing flavor.
Statistics
Another found that following a diet rich in plant foods and lower in animal foods was associated with a 16 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 31 to 32 percent lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. (everydayhealth.com)
A study found that livestock provides just 18 percent of calories consumed globally but takes up 83 percent of farmland. (forksoverknives.com)
How to navigate social situations with a plant-based lifestyle?
Transitioning to a plant diet is difficult. This includes social situations like eating out with friends. Take proactive steps before you dine out so that you can maintain your chosen diet and still enjoy delicious food. Verify the restaurant's vegan policies before you go.
If the venue of choice is suitable for vegans, kick-off conversation with friends and family about your preferred food items; this will minimize ordering mistakes at the restaurant eliminating awkward explanations or misunderstandings about your dietary restrictions. You can have faith in your chef and trust their judgement when making vegan dishes. If necessary, you can chat with them to help them better understand your needs.
You can help make a difference by bringing along healthy snacks and drinks to vegan events. As your non-vegan relatives settle into incorporating vegan recipes over time, recognize even the smallest gestures made regarding a plant-based diet: after all, adjusting kitchen habits is an ongoing process.
It can be difficult to navigate social situations while following a vegan diet. Eventually, it becomes second nature; every effort put in results in gradual improvements, so start small and have faith in yourself!
No one food can reduce your risk for cancer, but there is an overall diet that can. Learn what it means to eat a plant-based diet and see all the ways it can
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