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Sweet and Sour Tofu Dish: A Delicious Vegan Recipe for Every Occasion


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Sweet and Sour Tofu features crispy tofu cubes in a vibrant sauce with fresh vegetables and pineapple, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner or an impressive plant-based meal for guests.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

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  1. Drain the tofu by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
  3. Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
  6. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the diced onion for about 2 minutes until translucent.
  7. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Add diced red and green bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  9. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
  10. Stir in pineapple chunks and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
  11. Gently fold the crispy tofu back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb some sauce.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  13. Serve the sweet and sour tofu over steamed rice or quinoa.
  14. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

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Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to keep it moist.
  • Avoid freezing the dish to maintain the texture of the tofu and vegetables.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes