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Fiery Gochujang Korean Tofu Recipe

Fiery Gochujang Korean Tofu


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4.7 from 29 reviews

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

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.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

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