General tso tofu

Dinner

Item Rating: 73/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 300 calories, 15.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 30.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)

Calories		352.9
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		17.6 g	22%
	Saturated Fat	2.4 g	12%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		941.2 mg	40%
Total Carbohydrates		35.3 g	12%
	Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	12%
	Sugars	11.8 g
protein		17.6 g	35%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		176.5 mg	13%
Iron		2.9 mg	16%
Potassium		352.9 mg	7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

Source of Calories

Fat: 158 cal (42.8%)

Protein: 70 cal (19.0%)

Carbs: 141 cal (38.2%)

About General tso tofu

General Tso Tofu is a plant-based twist on the popular American-Chinese dish, General Tso's Chicken. It typically features crispy tofu pieces coated in a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and sugar. Tofu, the central ingredient, is derived from soybeans and is a rich source of plant-based protein. The dish provides a moderate balance of macronutrients but can be high in sodium and added sugars depending on the sauce preparation. Served with steamed vegetables or rice, it can be a nutrient-dense option when minimally processed ingredients are used.

Health Benefits

• High in plant-based protein: Tofu contains approximately 10 grams of protein per 100 grams, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in isoflavones: Soy-based tofu provides isoflavones, which may promote heart health and support hormonal balance.
• Contains iron and calcium: Fortified tofu offers about 15% of the daily iron and calcium needs per serving, essential for bone health and oxygen transport.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains soy, gluten (if traditional soy sauce is used)

Suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan

Not suitable for: Soy-free diets, gluten-free diets (unless tamari or gluten-free soy sauce is used)

Selection and Storage

Store tofu in an airtight container with water in the fridge and use within 3-5 days. Leftover cooked General Tso Tofu should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days.

Common Questions About General tso tofu Nutrition

Is General Tso Tofu high in protein?

General Tso Tofu can be a good source of protein as tofu contains around 10 grams of protein per 100 grams. However, the exact protein content depends on the recipe and serving size, especially if additional ingredients like batter or sauces are used.

Can I eat General Tso Tofu on a keto diet?

General Tso Tofu is typically not suitable for a keto diet as the sauce often contains sugar and cornstarch, which significantly increase the carbohydrate content. A single serving can have 20-30 grams of carbs depending on the recipe. Adjustments can be made by using a sugar-free sauce and keto-friendly substitutes.

What are the health benefits of General Tso Tofu?

Tofu is rich in plant-based protein and contains essential nutrients like iron and calcium. However, traditional General Tso Tofu recipes may include high amounts of sodium and added sugars, which can be concerning for heart health when consumed in excess. Opting for homemade versions can mitigate these concerns.

What is an appropriate serving size for General Tso Tofu?

An appropriate serving size of General Tso Tofu would be around 1 cup (roughly 200-250 grams), which can provide a balanced portion of protein and calories, typically ranging between 250-400 calories depending on the preparation and added ingredients.

How does General Tso Tofu compare to General Tso Chicken?

General Tso Tofu is typically lower in saturated fat compared to General Tso Chicken as tofu is plant-based. However, both dishes can be high in calories, sugar, and sodium depending on preparation. Tofu also caters to vegan and vegetarian diets, while chicken does not.

Data Sources & Scientific References