This is one of my favorite tofu recipes! The tofu is full of flavor as it soaks in the spicy sauce. It is delicate and soft, pairing perfectly with a steaming bowl of hot rice. This healthy, nutritious meal is a great way to get your protein. Enjoy this easy 15-minute Korean braised spicy tofu!
Korean Braised Spicy Tofu Origin
Korean braised tofu, also called ‘Dubu Jorim,’ is a common banchan in Korean households and features firm tofu braised in a savory, flavorful sauce. It is also a popular side in Korean lunchboxes. This dish is usually enjoyed with a bowl of rice.
Tofu Benefits
Tofu is made from soybeans, which provide complete protein because they contain all the essential amino acids. It also contains isoflavones and polyunsaturated fats and is low in saturated fat. Tofu is easy on the stomach since it is highly digestible, and it is low in calories, making it excellent for weight management.”
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Click on the images for the direct link to the ingredients/tools I used:
Instructions
Pat the block of tofu dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice into even pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochugaru, sesame oil, honey, garlic, green onion, water, and sesame seeds.
Heat a drizzle of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add tofu slices and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3–4 minutes per side.
Pour the sauce over the tofu and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with extra sesame seeds, and enjoy hot with rice.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Easy Korean Braised Spicy Tofu Tips
- Use firm or extra-firm tofu so it will hold its shape during braising.
- Pat-dry the tofu well so the tofu will not get soggy, and it will be able to absorb the sauce better.
- Make sure to slice evenly so the pieces cook evenly in the pan.
Substitutions
Soy sauce –> Tamari, coconut aminos, or liquid aminos
Gochugaru –> Red Pepper flakes + paprika
Sesame oil –> peanut oil
Honey –> Agave syrup or sugar
Water –> broth
Easy Korean Braised Spicy Tofu
Ingredients
- * 1 block firm tofu
- * 1/4 cup soy sauce
- * 1 tbsp gochugaru Korean chili flakes
- * 1 tbsp sesame oil
- * 1/2 tbsp honey
- * 2 cloves garlic minced
- * 1 green onion chopped
- * 1/4 cup water
- * 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Pat the block of tofu dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice into even pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochugaru, sesame oil, honey, garlic, green onion, water, and sesame seeds.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add tofu slices and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Pour the sauce over the tofu and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
- Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with extra sesame seeds, and enjoy hot with rice.
Did you enjoy my easy Korean braised spicy tofu recipe? You might also want to check out my strawberry tofu smoothie.
