Vegan Sweet and Sour “Chicken”

This vegan sweet and sour “chicken” recipe is a delicious and satisfying plant-based take on the takeout classic. Crispy, flavorful, and coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your ethics.

Vegan Sweet And Sour Chicken Ingredients

What You’ll Need to Make Vegan Sweet and Sour “Chicken”

For this recipe, we’ll be using tofu to mimic the texture of chicken. Don’t worry if you’re not a huge tofu fan – the key is in the preparation! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the “Chicken”:

• 1 (14-ounce) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water, more as needed

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion, for garnish

Pressed Tofu for Vegan Sweet and Sour Chicken

How to Make Vegan Sweet and Sour “Chicken”

Ready to get cooking? Let’s break this recipe down step-by-step:

1. Press the Tofu: Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving a chewy texture. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and place it between two plates. Weigh down the top plate with something heavy, like cans or a cast iron skillet. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the “Chicken”: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Tofu: Dip each tofu cube into the vegetable broth, then dredge it in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Cook the Tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
5. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, cornstarch, and ground ginger.
6. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the bell peppers and pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly softened.
7. Combine and Simmer: Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the vegetables and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
8. Add the “Chicken”: Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
9. Garnish and Serve: Serve your vegan sweet and sour “chicken” immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions.

Vegan Sweet and Sour Chicken Cooking Process

Tips for the Best Vegan Sweet and Sour “Chicken”

• Pressing the Tofu: “Don’t skip pressing the tofu! This step removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to absorb more flavor and crisp up beautifully.” says vegan chef, Sarah Thompson.
• Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or sourness of the sauce to your liking. For a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. For a tangier flavor, add a bit more rice vinegar.
• Get Creative with Veggies: Don’t be afraid to experiment with other vegetables in your stir-fry. Broccoli, carrots, and water chestnuts are all delicious additions.

“This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the familiar flavors of sweet and sour chicken while embracing a plant-based lifestyle,” says Chef Thompson. “It’s a crowd-pleaser that even meat-eaters will love!”

Vegan Sweet and Sour Chicken Plated

FAQs

Can I use a different type of tofu?

While extra-firm tofu works best, you can use firm tofu in a pinch. Just be sure to press it thoroughly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze vegan sweet and sour “chicken”?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the tofu may become watery upon thawing.

What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. For a lighter option, serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice. You can even enjoy it as a filling for lettuce wraps or spring rolls! For other delicious vegan recipes, check out our vegan spring roll recipe.

This vegan sweet and sour “chicken” is a testament to the fact that plant-based eating can be flavorful, satisfying, and fun. So why not give this recipe a try tonight? Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you! And if you’re looking for other vegan options using your air fryer, be sure to check out our vegan air fryer recipes. For more satisfying summer meal ideas, explore our list of vegan summer dinner recipes.