Description
Crispy Korean Gochujang Tofu features golden, crunchy tofu cubes coated in a bold, sweet, and spicy Korean-inspired sauce. This plant-based dish is flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp oil (for frying)
2 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp grated ginger
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture, then cut it into even cubes.
- Coat the tofu cubes evenly with cornstarch, ensuring all sides are lightly covered.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides, turning carefully for even browning. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together the gochujang, soy sauce, maple syrup or honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Return the crispy tofu to the pan and pour the sauce over it. Toss gently until each piece is evenly coated and glossy.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with vegetables.
Notes
For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.
To bake instead of fry, place coated tofu on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to turn this into a complete stir-fry meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
