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General Tso’s Tofu Recipe

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4.1 from 29 reviews

This General Tso’s Tofu recipe offers a delicious and healthier twist on the classic takeout favorite by using extra-firm tofu baked to crispy perfection and coated with a flavorful, slightly spicy sauce. Perfectly balanced with sweet, tangy, and savory notes, this vegan and gluten-free dish is an excellent protein-packed meal served over rice and steamed vegetables.

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tofu

  • 14-16 oz block extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed; can also use super firm tofu)
  • 1 heaping tbsp cornstarch (for coating)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/4-1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tbsp cornstarch + 1/4 cup water (mixed well)

Garnishes and Serving

  • Green onion, sliced
  • Sesame seeds
  • Additional red pepper flakes
  • Basmati or brown rice, steamed broccoli, red peppers, snap peas, bok choy (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Press and cube tofu: Press the tofu block for 15–30 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. If using super firm tofu, pressing is not necessary before cubing.
  3. Coat tofu with cornstarch: Place tofu cubes in a large bowl, add cornstarch and garlic powder, and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when baked.
  4. Bake tofu: Arrange coated tofu in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Note that super firm tofu may cook faster, around 18 minutes.
  5. Prepare sauce: While tofu bakes, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, toasted sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, and the cornstarch-water mixture in a small bowl until combined.
  6. Cook sauce: Heat a skillet over low to medium heat and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir continuously and cook until the sauce thickens slightly; it thickens quickly once bubbling starts, so watch carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Toss tofu in sauce: Add the baked tofu to the skillet with the thickened sauce and gently toss until every piece is fully coated, ensuring maximum flavor.
  8. Serve: Serve the sauced tofu over steamed basmati or brown rice alongside steamed vegetables such as broccoli, red peppers, snap peas, or bok choy. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and extra red pepper flakes as desired. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Pressing tofu removes moisture, resulting in a crispier texture when baked.
  • Super firm tofu can be used without pressing and tends to cook faster.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level.
  • Use tamari or coconut aminos as soy sauce substitutes to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • If desired, vegetables can be sautéed or steamed to serve alongside tofu.
  • Ensure the sauce thickens properly by stirring constantly once it begins to bubble.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (excluding tofu pressing time)
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/general-tsos-tofu-recipe/