Low-Sugar General Tao Tofu

Tofu général tao réduit en sucre

This revamped version of General Tao tofu is perfect for those watching their sugar intake. It stands out with a burst of flavors and the addition of various vegetables, making it a fuller and more delicious option. High in fiber and made with plant-based protein, this recipe is ideal for a balanced and tasty meal. Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.

Preparation 15 min
Cooking 30 min
Portion 3

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories
380
Fat
17
Carbohydrates
33
Fibre
5
Protein
28
Sodium
780

Ingredients

  • 454 g (1 lb) extra-firm tofu

  • 15 ml (1 tbsp) cornstarch

  • 7.5 ml (½ tbsp) sesame oil

  • A pinch of salt

  • Pepper, to taste

Sauce:

  • 250 ml (1 cup) low-sodium vegetable (or chicken) broth

  • 45 ml (3 tbsp) light soy sauce

  • 30 ml (2 tbsp) tomato paste (or sugar-free ketchup)

  • 30 ml (2 tbsp) maple syrup

  • 15 ml (1 tbsp) cornstarch

  • 15 ml (1 tbsp) rice vinegar

  • 10 ml (2 tsp) paprika

  • 10 ml (2 tsp) hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Red Hot)

  • 5 ml (1 tsp) garlic powder

  • 5 ml (1 tsp) onion powder

Sauté:

  • 5 ml (1 tsp) sesame oil

  • 30 ml (2 tbsp) fresh ginger, minced

  • 1-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 2 bell peppers, sliced

  • A handful of mushrooms, sliced

  • 1 zucchini, diced

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • Pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional) :

  • Green onion

  • Sesame seeds

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

  2. In a bowl, using your hands, break the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Add cornstarch, oil, salt, and pepper, mix well, and place the tofu on the baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, stirring once or twice during cooking.

  3. In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients. Set aside.

  4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Add ginger, garlic, and vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes. Season with pepper to taste.

  5. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir. Allow to reduce for 3 minutes.

  6. Add the tofu and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce is thick, and the tofu is well-coated.

  7. Serve over quinoa or your favorite starch, and top with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

Keeps for 7 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container or 1-2 months in the freezer.

 

For truly crispy tofu, it's best to cook it in the oven or an air fryer if available. You can still use just a skillet and roast the tofu directly, but the texture may not be the same.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in Quebec City