Gochujang Korean Tofu: A Flavorful Vegan Delight

Spicy and savory Gochujang Korean tofu with a deep, rich flavor—perfect for tofu lovers and anyone craving Korean cuisine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Gochujang Korean Tofu is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s both spicy and savory. The gochujang sauce brings a rich, umami-packed heat to the tofu, while the sesame oil and seasonings create a mouthwatering marinade. It’s simple to prepare, quick to cook, and packed with plant-based goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned tofu enthusiast or new to Korean flavors, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons gochujang sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1. Press the tofu to remove excess water and cut it into cubes.
2. In a bowl, mix the gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
3. Toss the tofu cubes in the sauce mixture and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the tofu for 5-7 minutes, turning until crispy on all sides.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2 servings

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
• Increase Heat: If you love spice, add extra gochujang sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Sauce Swap: Try using tamari or liquid aminos as a soy sauce alternative for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?

Firm tofu works best for this recipe, as it holds up better when frying and marinading. Soft tofu may fall apart during cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the tofu in the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

3. What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made from gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), rice, and fermented soybeans. It’s sweet, savory, and spicy, making it perfect for Korean-style dishes.

4. Can I use a different oil instead of sesame oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or avocado oil as a substitute, though sesame oil adds a unique flavor that pairs well with the gochujang.

5. How do I make the tofu extra crispy?

For even crispier tofu, you can toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch before frying or bake them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

7. Can I use tofu that isn’t pressed?

It’s important to press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This ensures that the tofu absorbs the marinade and becomes crispy when cooked.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to make it a more complete meal.

9. Is this dish spicy?

Yes, gochujang gives this dish a spicy kick. You can adjust the spice level by using less gochujang or adding more based on your preference.

10. What should I serve this with?

This tofu pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Gochujang Korean Tofu is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the delicious taste of Korean cuisine to your kitchen. With its crispy tofu, spicy-sweet marinade, and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option. Try it today for a vibrant and tasty vegan delight!

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