23 Mar 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 12 min
Ingredients:
1/4 cup olive oil
5 garlic cloves
1 cup bread crumbs
14.99 oz tofu
1/2 cup honey
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup soy sauce
1.50 tbsp fish sauce
4 tsp chili sauce
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 cup onion
General Tso's Baked Tofu is a delightful and healthier twist on a popular Chinese-American dish. This recipe incorporates crispy baked tofu with a rich, savory sauce, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. It's perfect for those looking for a meatless alternative that's full of flavor and texture.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some olive oil.
2. Prepare the Tofu:
- Drain and press the tofu to remove excess water. Cutting the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
3. Prepare Garlic Oil:
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Coat the Tofu:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour half of the garlic-infused olive oil over the tofu cubes, tossing gently to coat.
- Roll the tofu cubes in the bread crumb mixture until evenly coated.
5. Bake the Tofu:
- Place the breaded tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, fish sauce, and chili sauce until well combined.
- In a skillet, heat the remaining garlic-infused olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Combine Tofu with Sauce:
- Once the tofu is done baking, add the crispy tofu cubes into the skillet with the sauce.
- Gently toss the tofu until it is well coated with the sauce.
8. Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the tofu.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or your choice of side.
Tips:
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Use Panko bread crumbs for extra crispiness.
- Flip the tofu halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce according to your spice preference.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or additional sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the tofu at its crispiest.
By following this recipe, you'll be able to enjoy a deliciously crispy and flavorful General Tso's Baked Tofu. It's a great dish for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, offering a hearty, satisfying, and healthier option to traditional takeout. Enjoy your homemade culinary creation with a side of rice or steamed vegetables!