Try our Chinese Lemon Tofu for a delightful twist on a takeout classic! This dish features crispy, golden tofu nuggets smothered in a tangy, sticky lemon sauce. Perfectly paired with rice and lemon slices, it makes for a mouthwatering, 30-minute meal. Inspired by the Chinese-American favorite Lemon Chicken, this vegan and gluten-free recipe offers a plant-based alternative without compromising on flavor. The tofu is baked to a crispy perfection and coated in a bright, flavorful lemon glaze. Enjoy a delicious and fuss-free meal that’s packed with taste in every bite! For more details, check out our full article.
INGREDIENTS FOR LEMON TOFU
Crispy Tofu: Imagine tofu that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—without the need for deep frying! Achieve this with just four simple ingredients: extra-firm tofu, a neutral oil, tamari (or soy sauce), and cornstarch.
Aromatics: For a lemon sauce with a perfect balance of savory and subtly sweet flavors, sauté green onions, garlic, and fresh ginger. These aromatics enhance the sauce beautifully.
Black Pepper: Though optional, I highly recommend adding black pepper. It may seem minor, but the subtle heat complements the tangy lemon, adding an extra layer of flavor that’s too good to miss.
Broth: For a deeper savory taste, use vegan “chicken” broth. If you don’t have it, vegetable broth works well as a substitute.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest are crucial for a bright, flavorful sauce. Use a microplane to grate the zest and squeeze the juice from a couple of lemons. Store-bought lemon juice can be used if you’re in a pinch.
HOW TO MAKE CHINESE LEMON TOFU
Step 1: Tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Toss with oil and tamari until evenly coated, then sprinkle with cornstarch and toss again. Bake until the tofu is crispy and golden.
Step 2: While baking, whisk together broth, lemon juice, tamari, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat oil in a large pan and sauté the white parts of the green onion, garlic, ginger, and black pepper until fragrant. Add the lemon sauce and simmer for a few minutes, then stir in the lemon zest.
Step 3: Add the baked tofu to the pan and toss in the sauce. Stir in sesame seeds. Serve over rice, garnished with green onions and lemon slices.
COOKING TIPS
Tear the tofu by hand for a more satisfying texture and better sauce adherence. Ripping the tofu into bite-sized chunks creates a meatier feel and helps the sauce cling to each piece, though you can slice it into cubes if you prefer.
Bake the tofu on the top rack for the best results. The direct heat from the top rack ensures the tofu turns crispy and golden-brown.
Consider freezing the tofu beforehand. Freezing and then thawing tofu creates a spongy, chewy texture due to the large air pockets formed by melting ice crystals. This technique, highlighted in a Bon Appetit article, helps the tofu absorb flavors, making each bite deliciously airy and satisfying.
CONCLUSION
Chinese Lemon Tofu offers a refreshing and tangy twist on a beloved Chinese dish. The combination of silken tofu’s delicate texture, the zesty brightness of lemon, and the savory depth of soy sauce creates a harmonious and satisfying flavor profile. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a great choice for those looking for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
