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Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This recipe features crispy tofu coated in a flavorful gochujang sauce, making it a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this recipe embraces the bold flavors of Korean cuisine.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Korean
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 non-stick skillet or frying pan
  • 1 spatula
  • 1 paper towels
  • 1 baking sheet (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu 1 block.
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup gochujang Korean red chili paste.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • sesame seeds for garnish.
  • chopped green onions for garnish.

Instructions
 

  • Drain the block of tofu and wrap it in paper towels. Place a heavy object on top to press the tofu for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  • Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles, ideally about 1 inch thick.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper (if desired). Toss the tofu pieces in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
  • Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated tofu pieces in a single layer.
  • Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the tofu is golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • While the tofu is cooking, prepare the gochujang sauce by whisking together the gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl.
  • Once the tofu is crispy and golden, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the gochujang sauce over the tofu in the skillet. Toss to coat all the tofu pieces evenly.
  • Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the sauce and allow the flavors to meld.
  • Remove the tofu from the skillet and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

For an extra kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
This crispy gochujang tofu can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the tofu is best enjoyed fresh and crispy.