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Instant Pot Recipes

Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice

By PanPotPlates Test KitchenReviewed by PanPotPlates Editorial TeamPublished Apr 29, 2026 · Updated May 12, 2026
Asian-Inspired 30 mins instantpotveganeasyquickhealthyfamily-friendlyglutenfreedairyfreehighproteinflavorfulmealpreptimessaver

Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice is a practical PanPotPlates recipe built for dependable weeknight cooking.

Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice
Prep 10 min
Cook 20 min
Total 30 min
Servings 4
Difficulty easy
Cuisine Asian-Inspired

Recipe Details

Prep10 min
Cook20 min
Total30 min
Servings4
Difficultyeasy
CuisineAsian-Inspired
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Ingredients

Servings 4
  • 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients for Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice
Ingredients for Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice

Instructions

  1. Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat the vegetable oil.
  2. Add the cubed tofu and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic to the pot; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed jasmine rice and 1 1/4 cups water to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Place the browned tofu cubes on top of the rice. Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to sealing.
  6. Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' on high pressure and cook for 4 minutes.
  7. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes once cooking ends, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
  8. While the rice and tofu cook, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
  9. Switch the Instant Pot back to 'Sauté' mode, pour the orange sauce into the pot, then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
  10. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  11. Gently fold the tofu and rice into the orange glaze until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  12. Serve topped with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice cooking in the recommended pan or pot
Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice cooking in the recommended pan or pot

Tips

Pan Or Pot Required

This recipe is specially tailored for the Instant Pot , providing an all-in-one cooking experience that combines sautéing, pressure cooking, and simmering to create a quick, easy, and nutritious meal.

Cookware Size Guidance

For the best results with this Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice recipe, we recommend using a 6-quart Instant Pot.

Cookware Swap Guidance

ve a similar delicious and convenient meal: Multi-Cooker with Sauté and Pressure Cook Functions: Brands like Ninja Foodi or Crock-Pot Express also offer sauté and pressure cooking modes, making them excellent substitutes.

Leftovers Quality

Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice ahead?
Yes. Prep the ingredients or cook the full dish ahead, then reheat gently so the texture stays close to freshly made.
What cookware works best?
Use a Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.
How do I know it is done?
Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

Customize this Instant Pot vegan and gluten-free recipe with easy ingredient swaps to suit your taste and dietary preferences while keeping it nutritious and flavorful:

  • Tofu: Swap extra firm tofu with tempeh or chickpea tofu for varied texture and flavor, maintaining a high-protein vegan profile.
  • Jasmine Rice: Replace with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and a heartier grain. Adjust cooking times as needed.
  • Orange Juice: Use tangerine or mandarin juice for a sweeter citrus flavor, or substitute with lemon juice and a touch of sweetener for a tangier glaze.
  • Soy Sauce: Choose tamari for gluten-free cooking or coconut aminos if avoiding soy; both preserve umami richness.
  • Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar: For a non-vegan option, honey works well, or use date syrup for another natural sweetener.
  • Vegetable Oil: Try avocado oil or light olive oil for different flavor profiles and health benefits.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper or omit entirely for a kid-friendly mild version.

These options keep the dish easy, high in protein, and delicious while allowing flexibility based on your pantry and preferences.

Storage and Reheating

Cool Instant Pot Orange-Glazed Tofu with Ginger Rice before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze portions for longer storage when the ingredients are freezer-friendly. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid if the dish looks dry.

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