Looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea packed with flavor? Sweet and sour tofu could be exactly what you need. A plant-based twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe is full of zest, crunch, and protein. And the best part? You can make it at home in just 30 minutes, cutting out the excess oil, sugar, and preservatives often found in takeout.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a tofu newbie, or just looking to diversify your weeknight dinners, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Read on to discover how easy it is to make sweet and sour tofu, plus tips and tricks to take your tofu game to the next level.
How to Make Sweet and Sour Tofu
This dish strikes the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and savory, while offering a satisfying variety of textures. Here’s a step-by-step guide to whipping up sweet and sour tofu in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the tofu:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 10 ounces firm tofu, cubed
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons oil (extra virgin olive oil recommended), divided
- 1 carrot, chopped
- ½ red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ onion, chopped
For the sauce:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (or your preferred sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or ketchup for convenience)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 6 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Marinate the Tofu
Mix soy sauce and rice vinegar in a bowl. Add cubed tofu and marinate for at least 5 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Coat with Cornstarch
Drain the marinated tofu. Transfer one-third of the tofu cubes to a freezer bag with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Shake to coat evenly. Repeat for the remaining tofu.
- Cook the Tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet. Add tofu cubes and cook over medium-high heat until crispy and golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the skillet and sauté chopped carrot, bell peppers, and onion over medium-high heat until tender and slightly golden. Set veggies aside.
- Prepare the Sauce
Mix all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps.
- Combine Tofu and Veggies
Pour the sauce into the skillet and cook until it thickens slightly. Add the cooked tofu and veggies back into the pan, stirring gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy
Serve your sweet and sour tofu hot, garnished with sesame seeds or fresh scallions if desired. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Sweet and Sour Tofu Ingredients and Tips
Key Ingredient Swaps
- Soy Sauce Alternatives: Use tamari for gluten-free needs or coconut aminos if avoiding soy entirely.
- Vinegar Substitutes: Apple cider or white vinegar work perfectly in place of rice vinegar.
- Sweeteners: Brown sugar, maple syrup, or agave syrup add great flavor if you’re avoiding refined sugar.
- Tomato Paste Options: Tomato puree, ketchup, or tomato sauce can easily replace tomato paste.
Tips for Best Results
- Choose the Right Tofu: Use firm or extra-firm tofu to maintain structure during cooking. Soft tofu tends to break apart.
- Double-Coating for Extra Crunch: If crunch is your goal, give the tofu a second cornstarch coating before frying.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Love pineapple in your sweet and sour? Toss some in with the veggies for added sweetness and juiciness.
- Reheat Leftovers Like a Pro: This dish stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat over low heat in a skillet to preserve texture.
Looking for More Tofu Recipes?
Craving inspiration for your next tofu-based creation? Check out these ideas to keep things fresh and exciting:
- Crispy Sesame Tofu Bowls: A savory, nutty dish that comes together in 25 minutes.
- Spicy Korean Gochujang Tofu: Packed with bold and fiery flavors for spice lovers.
- Tofu Stir-Fry: Quick, colorful, and versatile—perfect for those busy weeknights.
At Blog Time US, we’re passionate about providing vegan-friendly recipes that maximize flavor while keeping meal prep manageable.
Did You Make This Sweet and Sour Tofu Recipe?
We’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Share your thoughts, tips, and photos with our community:
- Post your creation on Instagram and tag @BlogTimeUS with #SweetAndSourTofu.
- Leave a comment below with your favorite twist on this classic dish.
Your feedback helps us improve while bringing our community of food enthusiasts closer together.
Why This Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Is a Must-Try
Sweet and sour tofu isn’t just a recipe—it’s a testament to how plant-based cooking can transform humble ingredients into something extraordinary. With its balance of tangy sweetness, crunchy vegetables, and satisfying tofu, it’s as comforting as takeout but far healthier and more affordable to make at home.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or planning a meal for friends, this dish promises to impress. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter for anyone curious about plant-based eating!
The next time you’re in the mood for Chinese-inspired flavors, give this easy recipe a shot. And don’t forget to pair it with your favorite side dish for the ultimate dinner experience.