If you’re craving a dish that bursts with comforting flavors and embodies the heart of Korean home cooking, this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe is an absolute must-try. Featuring perfectly golden tofu slices simmered in a vibrant, savory, and slightly spicy sauce, it delivers layers of taste and texture that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just exploring plant-based meals, this dish offers a delightful combination of crispy edges and a rich, flavorful glaze that feels both nourishing and exciting on the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe. Each component brings something special to the table, from the silky protein power of firm tofu to the bold umami and spice that make this dish shine.
- Firm tofu: Pressed and sliced, it provides the perfect sturdy texture that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Vegetable oil: Helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on the tofu slices without overpowering the flavors.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds essential savory depth while keeping the saltiness balanced.
- Water: Thins out the sauce allowing it to coat each tofu slice evenly.
- Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes): Brings authentic, smoky heat that is distinctive yet approachable.
- Sesame oil: For a rich nuttiness and aroma that perfectly complements Korean dishes.
- Sugar: Balances the savory and spicy notes by adding a gentle sweetness.
- Rice vinegar: Introduces a subtle tang that brightens the whole sauce.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Offers an aromatic punch to the braising liquid.
- Green onions: Freshly chopped for garnish, adding a mild, fresh bite and color contrast.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Provides a lovely crunch and an additional layer of nutty flavor.
- Optional sliced red chili or more gochugaru: Use to dial up the heat if you love a spicier kick.
How to Make Korean Braised Tofu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
The secret to tender yet firm tofu is pressing out excess moisture first. After at least 15 minutes of pressing, slice your tofu into ½-inch thick rectangles. This step ensures the tofu will absorb the braising sauce better and crisp up nicely without falling apart.
Step 2: Brown the Tofu
Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the tofu slices and cook them until each side turns a gorgeous golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This not only builds texture but also locks in flavor before the tofu simmers in the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Braising Sauce
In a bowl, combine low-sodium soy sauce, water, gochugaru, sesame oil, sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to create a balanced sauce that’s simultaneously savory, spicy, sweet, and tangy. This sauce is really the heart of the Korean Braised Tofu Recipe.
Step 4: Simmer the Tofu in Sauce
Pour the prepared braising sauce evenly over the browned tofu slices in your skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. As it simmers, spoon the sauce occasionally over the tofu to enhance the absorption of flavors and keep every bite juicy and tasty.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds atop the tofu. These garnishes add freshness, texture, and a beautiful finishing touch that completes the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Serve Korean Braised Tofu Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds are ideal garnishes to bring out the vibrant color and subtle crunch that contrasts the tenderness of the tofu perfectly. Add thin slices of red chili if you want a bold dash of heat and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This Korean Braised Tofu Recipe shines when paired with steamed white rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up all the savory sauce. Traditional sides like kimchi, pickled radish, or a simple cucumber salad also wonderfully complement the bold flavors and bring a refreshing tang.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or to switch things up, serve the tofu over a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside noodles tossed in sesame oil. Drizzle some additional braising sauce over your plate for extra flavor and an eye-catching glossy finish that delights all senses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Korean Braised Tofu in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week without losing its delightful taste.
Freezing
To freeze, spread the tofu pieces and sauce evenly in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. While freezing is possible, the texture of tofu may slightly change after thawing, becoming softer, so keep that in mind when planning your meals.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Spoon some of the sauce over the tofu during reheating to keep it moist and flavorful. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out or breaking apart the tofu slices.
FAQs
Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?
Soft tofu is not recommended for this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe because it lacks the firmness needed to hold its shape during browning and braising. Firm tofu provides the best texture and prevents the slices from falling apart.
Is gochugaru very spicy?
Gochugaru has a moderate heat level with a slightly smoky and sweet undertone. It’s less spicy than many standard chili powders but adds authentic Korean flavor. You can always adjust the amount if you prefer milder or spicier dishes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This minor swap keeps the dish gluten-free while preserving that essential savory note.
How long should I press the tofu?
Pressing tofu for at least 15 minutes is ideal to remove excess water. This helps the tofu soak up the braising sauce better and ensures it crisps up nicely when pan-fried.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet or pan to allow enough space for the tofu slices to brown evenly. Cooking times remain nearly the same but watch closely to prevent overcrowding, which can reduce browning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and soulfulness of this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe. It’s a dish that invites you to savor each bite and appreciate the harmony of bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or simply looking for a satisfying vegan option, this recipe brings joy and warmth to your table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite meal!
Print
Korean Braised Tofu Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Korean Braised Tofu, also known as Dubu Jorim, is a flavorful and spicy vegan Korean dish featuring firm tofu slices braised in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, gochugaru, garlic, and sesame oil. This quick stovetop recipe yields golden-brown tofu infused with a deliciously balanced blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, perfect for serving with steamed rice and kimchi.
Ingredients
Tofu
- 1 (14-ounce) block firm tofu (pressed and cut into ½-inch thick slices)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Optional: sliced red chili or more gochugaru for extra heat
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then slice into rectangles about ½-inch thick to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Brown the tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Prepare the braising sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, water, gochugaru, sesame oil, sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic thoroughly to form the flavorful braising sauce.
- Braise the tofu: Pour the sauce evenly over the browned tofu in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the tofu to evenly coat and infuse deep flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately, ideally with steamed rice and kimchi for a complete traditional Korean meal.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice and kimchi to complete the Korean meal experience.
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of gochugaru or substitute it with mild chili flakes.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari sauce.
- Pressing the tofu properly is essential to achieving the right texture and flavor absorption.
