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Orange Tofu Broccoli Glaze

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This vibrant dish features tofu baked to a crisp alongside roasted broccoli, then coated in a rich orange glaze made from juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Paired with fluffy white rice and finished with a garnish of scallions, it's both sweet and tangy. The cornstarch coating ensures a golden crust without frying, and the entire meal is vegan, gluten-free, and deeply satisfying. Best of all, it’s flexible—swap broccoli with seasonal vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts for variation.

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Published By Dina
Updated on Wed, 30 Jul 2025 13:39:19 GMT
A bowl of food with tofu and broccoli. Bookmark
A bowl of food with tofu and broccoli. | ioanacooks.com

This sweet and tangy tofu broccoli and rice dish combines crispy tofu with vibrant roasted broccoli all coated in a luscious orange glaze. It is a versatile vegan and gluten-free meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

I first made this on a chilly evening and it quickly became a family favorite for its balance of savory and citrus notes.

Ingredients

  • Extra-firm tofu: Cut into cubes ensures the right texture for crispiness. Patting it dry is essential for removing moisture.
  • Neutral oil: Like canola allows even roasting without overpowering flavors.
  • Cornstarch: Coats the tofu and creates a perfect crispy crust.
  • Broccoli florets: Add freshness and charred flavor; choose firm bright green heads.
  • Kosher salt: Seasons the vegetables perfectly.
  • Long-grain white rice: Provides a neutral base to soak up the glaze.
  • Fresh orange zest and juice: Bring bright citrus sweetness.
  • Dark brown sugar: Adds depth and balances acidity.
  • Soy sauce or tamari: Adds umami and saltiness; tamari is a gluten-free option.
  • Fresh garlic: Imparts a subtle pungency.
  • Thinly sliced scallions: Garnish for freshness and color.
A dish of tofu and broccoli with a brown sauce. Bookmark
A dish of tofu and broccoli with a brown sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet:
Preheat oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit with the rack in the lower third position. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread tofu in an even layer on a towel and let it drain for ten to fifteen minutes to remove excess moisture.
Coat tofu and arrange on baking sheet:
Toss tofu gently with one tablespoon of oil in a large bowl. Spread one quarter cup cornstarch on a large plate and toss tofu pieces until all sides are evenly coated. Transfer tofu to one side of the prepared baking sheet.
Season and add broccoli:
In the same bowl, toss broccoli florets with kosher salt and the remaining one tablespoon oil until well coated. Spread broccoli evenly on the other side of the baking sheet.
Bake tofu and broccoli:
Bake until tofu is crispy and broccoli is tender and browned in spots, approximately thirty minutes. Flip tofu halfway through baking for even crisping.
Cook rice:
While tofu and broccoli bake, prepare rice according to package instructions.
Make orange glaze:
In a large skillet, combine orange zest and juice, dark brown sugar, soy sauce or tamari, grated garlic, and the remaining two teaspoons cornstarch. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly, about four to five minutes.
Coat tofu and finish dish:
Add the baked tofu to the skillet and stir to coat with glaze, cooking for about one minute. Remove from heat and fold in roasted broccoli. Serve this mixture over cooked rice and drizzle with any remaining glaze.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within one day to maintain texture and flavor. Reheat gently to keep tofu crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Broccoli can be swapped for cauliflower, broccolini, green beans, or halved Brussels sprouts. Spinach or kale can be cooked separately and added for extra greens.

A dish of tofu and broccoli with a brown sauce. Bookmark
A dish of tofu and broccoli with a brown sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant pairing. Garnish with extra scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do I make the tofu crispy in the oven?

Pat the tofu dry, toss it with oil, and coat it with cornstarch before baking. This creates a golden, crispy texture without frying.

→ Can I use a different vegetable instead of broccoli?

Yes, try cauliflower, green beans, broccolini, or Brussels sprouts. Just ensure they’re cut into similar sizes for even roasting.

→ What type of tofu should I use?

Use extra-firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture before baking for the best texture.

→ Is the glaze very sweet?

The glaze is balanced between sweet and tangy thanks to the orange juice, soy sauce, and a touch of dark brown sugar.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The tofu and broccoli are best fresh, but leftovers can be stored for 1 day and reheated in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. Always double-check labels on ingredients to be sure.

Orange Tofu Broccoli Glaze

Tofu and broccoli with orange glaze, baked until crisp and served over rice for a flavor-packed dish.

Time Needed to Prep
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Time
50 minutes
Published By: Dina

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves

Dietary Preferences: Vegan Safe, Made for Vegetarians, No Gluten, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main

Ingredient 01 1 14-ounce package extra-firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
Ingredient 02 2 tablespoons neutral oil such as canola, divided
Ingredient 03 1/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons cornstarch, divided
Ingredient 04 1 pound broccoli florets, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces (about 7 cups)
Ingredient 05 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Ingredient 06 1 cup long-grain white rice
Ingredient 07 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Ingredient 08 2/3 cup fresh orange juice (from 2 or 3 oranges)
Ingredient 09 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
Ingredient 10 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
Ingredient 11 1 clove garlic, grated (about 1/2 teaspoon)
Ingredient 12 Thinly sliced scallions, for garnish

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat oven to 425°F with rack in lower third position. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread tofu in an even layer on a towel and let drain for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 02

Gently toss tofu with 1 tablespoon oil in a large bowl. Spread 1/4 cup cornstarch on a large plate and toss tofu in cornstarch until evenly coated. Transfer tofu to one side of the prepared baking sheet.

Step 03

Toss broccoli with salt and remaining 1 tablespoon oil in the same bowl. Spread in an even layer on the other side of the baking sheet.

Step 04

Bake until tofu is crispy and broccoli is browned in spots and tender, about 30 minutes, flipping tofu halfway through.

Step 05

While tofu and broccoli bake, cook rice according to package directions.

Step 06

In a large skillet, stir together orange zest, orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and remaining 2 teaspoons cornstarch. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring often, until slightly thickened, 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 07

Add baked tofu to the skillet and stir to coat with glaze, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in roasted broccoli. Serve over cooked rice and drizzle with remaining glaze.

Extra Tips

  1. For crispier tofu, be sure to pat it dry and coat thoroughly with cornstarch.
  2. Swap broccoli with cauliflower, broccolini, green beans, or halved Brussels sprouts. Serve with wilted spinach or kale if desired.
  3. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day and reheated in the microwave, 400°F oven, or 350°F air fryer until warm and crisp.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large rimmed baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large bowl
  • Large skillet
  • Towel or paper towels

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains soy