Sizzling Spicy Gochujang Korean Tofu Recipe for Beginners

Spice lovers rejoice as this gochujang Korean tofu delivers an explosion of flavor that dances across your palate.

The fiery red sauce infuses every crispy bite with authentic Korean zest.

Bold and unapologetic, this recipe brings restaurant-quality heat straight to your kitchen.

Each golden-brown tofu piece promises a tantalizing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the deep, complex gochujang marinade.

The vibrant dish comes together effortlessly, requiring just a few strategic ingredients and simple techniques.

Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike will fall in love with this irresistible tofu creation that turns ordinary weeknight dinners into culinary celebrations.

Get ready to transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Seoul with this mouthwatering masterpiece.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 202 kcal

Servings: 5

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu Ingredients Guide

• Extra Firm Tofu: Protein-packed canvas that absorbs flavors beautifully, select fresh blocks with minimal moisture for ultimate crispiness.
• Soy Sauce: Savory seasoning that penetrates tofu, choose low-sodium varieties for balanced flavor control.

• Cornstarch, Breadcrumbs: Magical duo creating irresistible golden crunch, select fine breadcrumbs for even coverage and extra texture.

• Gochujang: Fiery Korean chili paste delivering complex heat and depth, opt for authentic brands with rich fermented notes.
• Honey: Smooth sweetener balancing spicy undertones, look for raw local varieties for enhanced complexity.
• Rice Vinegar: Tangy liquid brightening sauce profile, seek clear, mild versions for clean taste.
• Garlic: Aromatic flavor enhancer, choose fresh cloves for most vibrant punch.
• Sesame Oil: Nutty essence adding authentic Korean touch, select toasted version for deeper flavor.

• Cucumber, Carrot, Avocado: Fresh companions providing crisp textural contrast and nutritional boost.
• Sesame Seeds: Delicate crunchy sprinkle offering visual appeal and subtle nuttiness.
• Rice: Neutral base absorbing delicious sauce, select medium-grain for traditional Korean style.

Tofu Cooking Essentials & Tools

• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly crisping tofu cubes.
• Parchment paper: Prevents tofu from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Small pot: Perfect for preparing the gochujang sauce.
• Small bowl: Needed for mixing cornstarch and water.
• Whisk: Critical for smoothly blending sauce ingredients.
• Kitchen towel: Used to press and drain excess liquid from tofu.
• Cutting board: Helps slice tofu into uniform cubes.
• Sharp knife: Required for precise tofu cutting.

Step-by-Step Gochujang Korean Tofu Recipe

• Tofu Preparation

Select firm or extra-firm tofu and remove moisture by gently pressing with a clean kitchen towel. Cut into uniform cubes for consistent cooking.

• Coating Technique

Create a crispy exterior by rolling tofu pieces through seasoned cornstarch and breadcrumbs. Ensure each cube is evenly covered for maximum crunchiness.

• Oven Transformation

Arrange tofu cubes on a lined baking sheet, keeping space between pieces. Bake at high temperature to achieve golden, crispy edges without overcrowding.

• Spicy Gochujang Glaze

Craft a bold sauce combining gochujang, soy sauce, and sweet elements. Simmer and thicken the mixture to create a glossy, rich coating that clings perfectly to crispy tofu.

• Final Touch

Gently toss baked tofu in half the prepared sauce, allowing each piece to become beautifully glazed. Drizzle remaining sauce when serving for extra flavor intensity.

• Plating Inspiration

Create a colorful bowl with tofu as the centerpiece. Surround with fresh vegetables, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve alongside steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Spicy Variations for Gochujang Tofu

• Swap cornstarch for protein powder to increase nutritional value and create an even crispier exterior that locks in flavor.
• Adjust gochujang quantity to make the dish mild or fiery hot, matching your personal heat tolerance and taste preferences.
• Use a tofu press or heavy cookbook to remove moisture more effectively, guaranteeing maximum crispiness and better sauce absorption.
• Experiment with panko breadcrumbs, crushed rice crackers, or gluten-free alternatives to create unique texture variations that suit dietary needs.

Serving Up Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Flavor-Packed Rice Bowl: Create a vibrant rice bowl by layering fluffy white or brown rice with the crispy gochujang tofu, topped with fresh cucumber and carrot ribbons for added crunch and color.
• Korean-Inspired Wrap: Stuff the crispy tofu into soft tortillas or lettuce wraps, adding a drizzle of extra sauce and sprinkle of sesame seeds for a quick and portable meal that bursts with Korean flavors.
• Salad Sensation: Transform the tofu into a light and refreshing salad by placing crispy cubes over mixed greens, adding sliced avocado, and drizzling the remaining gochujang sauce as a zesty dressing.
• Dipping Delight: Serve the tofu as an appetizer with the remaining sauce on the side, creating a perfect shareable plate for gatherings or game nights with friends and family.

Leftovers? Here’s How to Keep Gochujang Tofu Fresh

• Fridge Fresh Tactics: Store cooled tofu in an airtight container, keeping it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to maintain crispiness and prevent sticking.
• Flavor Refresh Method: Reheat leftover tofu in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes to restore its original crispy texture. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make the coating soggy.
• Smart Sauce Strategy: Keep the remaining gochujang sauce in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use as a dipping sauce or quick marinade for other proteins or vegetables.
• Freezer Friendly Approach: Freeze baked tofu cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen tofu can last up to 2 months and works great in stir-fries or quick meal additions.

Fiery Gochujang Korean Tofu

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4.7 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Spicy crispy gochujang Korean tofu delivers bold Korean-inspired flavors with crunchy texture. Tangy sauce and perfectly golden tofu cubes promise a delightful meal you will savor with enthusiasm.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 block (16 oz/454 g) extra firm tofu
• 3 tbsps gluten-free breadcrumbs (can substitute regular breadcrumbs)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• ¼ cup (60 ml) gochujang (red chili paste)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 3 tbsps honey (substitute maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsps minced garlic
• 2 tbsps vegetable broth or water
• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp water

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Instructions

1. Tofu Preparation: Gently press tofu with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp final texture.
2. Cutting and Seasoning: Slice tofu into uniform cubes, then massage with soy sauce to enhance flavor penetration.
3. Coating Process: Roll tofu pieces thoroughly in cornstarch, creating a delicate powdery layer, then completely coat with breadcrumbs for ultimate crunchiness.
4. Baking Setup: Arrange coated tofu cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them to allow even browning and prevent moisture buildup.
5. Roasting: Bake in a preheated oven until the exterior transforms into a golden, crackling shell while maintaining a tender interior.
6. Sauce Creation: In a small saucepan, whisk gochujang and complementary ingredients, incorporating cornstarch to achieve a glossy, thickened consistency.
7. Finishing Touch: Toss roasted tofu delicately in the prepared sauce, ensuring complete and elegant coating.
8. Plating: Serve atop steamed rice, garnishing with sliced cucumber, carrots, avocado, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, optionally accompanied by steamed broccoli for added nutrition and visual appeal.

Notes

• Moisture Management: Press tofu thoroughly to remove excess water, ensuring a crispy, not soggy texture when roasted.
• Cornstarch Coating Technique: Create a light, even layer of cornstarch for maximum crunchiness and golden-brown exterior.
• Spacing Matters: Arrange tofu cubes with enough room on the baking sheet to prevent steaming and promote even, crisp browning.
• Sauce Consistency: Whisk gochujang sauce carefully and thicken with cornstarch to achieve a glossy, clinging coating that enhances flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 202
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg