Sweet & Sour Tofu

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Sweet & Sour Tofu

Yield: 4-6

Author: Rooted Vibe Life, LLC

Prep time: 30 MinCook time: 40 MinTotal time: 1 H & 10 M

A fresh take on a classic takeout favorite. Crispy baked tofu is tossed in a bright sweet and sour sauce made with pineapple juice, rice vinegar, and tomato ketchup, creating the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Finished with colorful peppers and onions, this dish is comforting, vibrant, and entirely plant-based.

Ingredients

Crispy Tofu

• 2 (14–16 oz) blocks extra-firm tofu, pressed
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Sweet & Sour Sauce

• 3 cups pineapple juice
• ¾ cup rice vinegar
• ¾ cup tomato ketchup
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup liquid aminos
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• 4 tbsp cornstarch
• 4 tbsp cold water

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tbsp neutral oil

Garnish

• Sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds

To Serve

• Steamed jasmine rice OR
• Stir-fried noodles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu
2. Press tofu for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cut into ¾-inch cubes.
4. Toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
5. Drizzle lightly with oil.
6. Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
7. Make the Sauce
8. In a saucepan combine:
9. pineapple juice
10. rice vinegar
11. ketchup
12. brown sugar
13. liquid aminos
14. red pepper flakes
15. Bring to a gentle simmer.
16. Whisk together the cornstarch and cold water.
17. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce.
18. Continue cooking 2–3 minutes until glossy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
19. Cook the Vegetables
20. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok.
21. Cook onions and peppers over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes.
22. Vegetables should remain slightly crisp.
23. Finish the Dish
24. Add baked tofu to the vegetables.
25. Pour in enough sauce to coat everything evenly.
26. Toss gently over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
27. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Bake the tofu ahead of time and crisp it briefly in the oven before service if needed.

Reserve extra sauce for catering or meal prep; it reheats well.

For additional freshness, add pineapple chunks or broccoli just before serving.

The vegetables should retain a slight crunch to contrast with the crispy tofu and glossy sauce.

www.rootedvibelife.com/recipes/sweet-amp-sour-tofu

tofu, sweet, sour, asian, dinner, vegan, plant-based

Dinner

Asian

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