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Homemade General Tso Tofu photo

General Tso Tofu

This General Tso Tofu is a delicious vegetarian twist on a classic! Crispy tofu in a savory-sweet sauce paired with vibrant veggies!
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 14 ounces extra-firm tofu frozen for at least 3 hours if time allows
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (gluten-free if needed, or substitute tamari)
  • 1.5 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce (Sambal Oelek)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey (swap light agave nectar to make vegan)
  • 5 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons canola or grapeseed oil (divided)
  • 12 ounces broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, about 1 small head)
  • 1 medium red bell pepper seeded and thinly sliced
  • 5 large green onions (or 7 small green onions), white parts removed and cut into 1 ½-inch pieces (about 1 bunch)
  • Prepared brown rice for serving
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional for serving)

Equipment

  • Tofu press or heavy weight
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by pressing the tofu. Wrap the frozen tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top to squeeze out excess moisture. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 ½ teaspoons chili-garlic sauce, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon honey (or agave nectar). Add the cubed tofu to the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
  3. After marinating, sprinkle 5 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This will help achieve that crispy texture when frying.
  4. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of canola or grapeseed oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup water, 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 1 to 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
  6. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Add the green onions and cook for an additional minute.
  7. Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir gently to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and everything to heat through.
  8. Serve your General Tso Tofu over prepared brown rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy this flavorful dish with family and friends!

Notes

  • Feel free to swap out vegetables like snap peas or baby corn for variety.
  • Add more chili-garlic sauce if you prefer extra heat.
  • For added crunch, toss in some cashews or peanuts.
  • To save time, consider adding cooked quinoa or rice directly into the skillet.