Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe showcases the unique taste of gochujang while ensuring a plant-based meal that’s easy to prepare. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies and rice for a wholesome experience that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates a robust flavor profile.
• Crispy Texture: Baking the tofu ensures a crunchy exterior while maintaining its tender inside.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with various vegetables or grains, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in under an hour.
• Nutritious Meal: Rich in protein and low in calories, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, you’ll need a few key tools to ensure success in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Small pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for the tofu to bake, helping achieve that coveted crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for tossing the tofu with sauces and coatings evenly.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for the sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

This baked Gochujang Korean tofu is crispy, packed with flavor and perfectly spiced. Serve it with your favorite veggies and fresh white rice for a quick and nutritious vegan dinner.

For the Tofu

• 1 16 ounce block extra firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons gluten free bread crumbs (can sub regular bread crumbs)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 1/4 cup gochujang/red chili paste (be sure to check if GF!)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable broth or water
• 3 tablespoons honey (sub maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water

How to Make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

1. Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain off excess liquid.
2. Wrap it in a towel and lightly press to absorb any remaining moisture.
3. Cut the tofu into approximately 1-inch cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

1. Toss the cubed tofu with tamari or soy sauce until well coated.
2. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu, mixing again until all pieces are covered.
3. Add gluten-free bread crumbs, tossing gently to ensure an even coating.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the coated tofu cubes onto the baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch each other for optimal crispiness.
3. Bake for 25 minutes, then turn off the oven but leave the tofu inside for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

While the tofu is baking:
1. In a small pot, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for water and cornstarch until smooth.
2. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with water until dissolved; then add this mixture to the pot.
3. Heat over low/medium heat until bubbling and thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Combine Tofu and Sauce

Once baked:
1. Allow the tofu to cool for about 5 minutes before transferring it into a serving bowl.
2. Toss half of the sauce with the crispy tofu until well-coated; reserve remaining sauce for serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu over cooked rice with fresh cucumber, carrot slices, avocado, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. It’s also delicious paired with steamed broccoli!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Crispy Gochujang Korean tofu is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and toppings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber: Sliced or diced, fresh cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to balance the spicy tofu.
• Carrots: Shredded or julienned carrots provide a sweet contrast and vibrant color.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the crispy texture of the tofu and adds healthy fats.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, fluffy white rice absorbs the flavors of the sauce and makes for a filling meal.
• Brown Rice: Offers more fiber and nutrients, making it a hearty alternative to white rice.
• Quinoa: For a protein-packed option, fluffy quinoa works splendidly with the tofu’s spices.

As a Bowl

• Korean Tofu Bowl: Layer crispy tofu over rice, then top with vegetables and drizzle extra sauce for a satisfying bowl.
• Salad Bowl: Create a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crispy tofu for a lighter option.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Achieving perfectly crispy Gochujang Korean tofu involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Bold pressing technique: Pressing the tofu helps remove excess moisture, allowing it to crisp up better in the oven.
• Bold cornstarch coating: A light dusting of cornstarch ensures that each piece of tofu gets extra crispiness during baking.
• Bold non-stick baking sheet: Using parchment paper or a non-stick baking sheet prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
• Bold spacing on the baking sheet: Keep tofu pieces spaced apart to allow hot air circulation for maximum crispiness.
• Bold oven preheating: Preheat your oven properly before baking to ensure even cooking from the start.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Pairing your crispy gochujang Korean tofu with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutrient-rich side that adds color and flavor; steam until bright green and tender.
2. Kimchi: This fermented side dish brings tangy flavors that contrast beautifully with the spicy tofu.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweetness balances out spiciness; roast until caramelized for extra flavor.
4. Sesame Noodles: Flavorful noodles tossed in sesame oil make for a delicious accompaniment.
5. Garlic Stir-Fried Greens: Quick sautéed spinach or bok choy with garlic adds freshness and nutrients to your plate.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw with cabbage and carrots dressed in rice vinegar complements the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your dish.

• Skipping the pressing step: Not pressing the tofu properly can lead to soggy pieces. Always wrap the tofu in a towel and press out as much liquid as possible for a better texture.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tofu pieces close together will prevent them from crisping. Ensure they are spread out on the baking sheet to allow air circulation.
• Ignoring marination time: Rushing through the marinating process can result in bland tofu. Allow enough time for the flavors to soak in, ideally for at least 15 minutes.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Some may find gochujang too spicy or sweet. Taste and adjust the amount according to your preference before baking.
• Neglecting to reserve sauce: Forgetting to save some sauce for serving can make the dish less flavorful. Always set aside a portion of sauce before tossing with the baked tofu.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any remaining sauce separate to maintain texture.

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze before adding the sauce.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick pan over medium heat with a little oil until warmed and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu that may help you in preparing this delicious dish.

How do I make my tofu extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you press the tofu well, use cornstarch evenly, and bake without overcrowding the baking sheet.

Can I use another type of sauce instead of gochujang?

Yes, you can substitute gochujang with other chili pastes or sauces but be mindful of adjusting spice levels accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just store cooked tofu separately from veggies and rice until ready to serve.

What can I serve with Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

You can serve it with rice, mixed vegetables like broccoli and carrots, or even toss it into salads for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only full of flavor but is also versatile enough to pair with various sides. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels based on your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish tonight!

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Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a vibrant dish that marries bold flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it an excellent choice for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Infused with the unique spice of gochujang and enhanced by the richness of sesame oil, this plant-based meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Each bite of crispy tofu pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables and rice, creating a wholesome dining experience that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or whip up a nutritious meal for yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 16 ounce block extra firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons gluten-free bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 1/4 cup gochujang/red chili paste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable broth or water
• 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for vegan
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
3. Toss tofu cubes in tamari until coated. Sprinkle with cornstarch and breadcrumbs, mixing gently.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange tofu without touching.
5. Bake for 25 minutes; then turn off the oven and let tofu sit for an additional 5 minutes.
6. While baking, whisk sauce ingredients in a pot, heating until thickened.
7. Allow baked tofu to cool slightly, toss with half of the sauce, and serve with remaining sauce on the side.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 0mg