Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is a delightful blend of texture and flavor, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a solo meal, this dish stands out with its crispy tofu coated in a savory gochujang sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s an ideal choice for both families and busy professionals looking for a satisfying vegan dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The baking technique ensures each piece of tofu achieves a golden, crunchy exterior.
• Flavor-Packed: Infused with gochujang and sesame oil, this dish bursts with umami and spice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, fresh veggies, or add it to salads for added protein.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components that are low in calories but high in flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is simple when you have the right tools. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the tofu, promoting optimal crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while allowing for even heat distribution.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for tossing the tofu with sauces and ensuring every piece is well-coated.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially for creating the sauce.

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 breadcrumbs (can sub regular breadcrumbs)

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

For Coating

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your tofu starts cooking immediately when placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain off excess liquid. Wrap it in a towel and lightly press to absorb more moisture.

Step 3: Cut the Tofu

Cut the tofu into about 1-inch cubes. Place these cubes in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Coat the Tofu

Toss the tofu cubes with tamari or soy sauce first, then sprinkle on cornstarch followed by breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated tofu pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure that no pieces touch each other; this allows them to become crispier during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, turn off the oven but let the tofu sit inside for an additional 5 minutes for extra crunch.

Step 7: Make the Sauce

While the tofu bakes, whisk together all sauce ingredients (except water/cornstarch) in a small pot over medium heat until well combined.

Step 8: Thicken Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water. Add this mixture to your pot of sauce, stirring continuously until it starts bubbling and thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

Step 9: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once baked, let the tofu cool for about 5 minutes before transferring it to a bowl. Toss gently with half of your prepared sauce until well-coated.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your crispy gochujang Korean tofu over rice alongside cucumber, carrot, avocado, or sesame seeds. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Serving Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a delightful experience that brings out its bold flavors and textures. It’s versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides or create a complete meal.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The classic option that balances the spicy sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option with a light texture that complements the tofu well.

In a Bowl

• Korean Tofu Bowl: Layer it with rice, sautéed veggies, and a drizzle of sauce for a satisfying meal.
• Vegan Buddha Bowl: Combine with greens, grains, and your favorite toppings for a nourishing dish.

As an Appetizer

• Tofu Skewers: Thread crispy tofu onto skewers with veggies for easy serving at parties.
• Gochujang Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside extra sauce for dipping to enhance flavors.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that contrasts with the spicy tofu.
• Pickled Carrots: Add tanginess and crunch for an exciting flavor profile.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

To achieve the best results when making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly Press Your Tofu: Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more flavor and become crispier.
• Even Coating is Key: Ensure each piece of tofu is fully coated in cornstarch for an even, crispy texture during baking.
• Space Them Out on the Baking Sheet: Avoid overcrowding; giving each piece room allows hot air to circulate for maximum crispiness.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tofu as it bakes to prevent overcooking while achieving a golden brown color.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs to the sauce for personalized flavor enhancements.
• Let It Sit After Baking: Allowing the tofu to rest after baking helps it firm up further before tossing in sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Pairing your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds spice and tang, perfect for balancing flavors.
2. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy provides a fresh crunch and complements the richness of the tofu.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness pairs well with the spiciness of Gochujang sauce.
4. Sesame Noodles: Cold noodles dressed in sesame oil add another layer of flavor and texture.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting side that enhances your meal’s umami notes.
6. Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans offer a simple yet satisfying side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your tofu turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful.

• Skipping the Pressing Step: Not pressing the tofu can lead to a soggy texture. Always drain and press your tofu before cooking to remove excess moisture.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing the tofu cubes too close together prevents them from crisping up. Arrange them in a single layer with space in between for optimal air circulation.
• Neglecting to Coat Evenly: Inadequate coating of the tofu with sauce and cornstarch can result in uneven flavor and texture. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not following the recommended baking time can lead to undercooked or burnt tofu. Keep an eye on your tofu, especially in the last few minutes of baking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality gochujang or soy sauce can diminish the flavor of your dish. Invest in good-quality ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the tofu to cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• It’s best to freeze before adding the sauce for better texture upon reheating.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but expect softer tofu.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and sauté until heated through for a crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds depth and spice to dishes like Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and ensure that your gochujang is gluten-free as well.

How do I customize my Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level according to your preference. Try adding bell peppers or bok choy for extra flavor.

What should I serve with Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles along with fresh veggies like cucumbers or carrots for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a main course or side dish and can be customized with various vegetables or sauces. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll love its unique flavors and delightful crunch!

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Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

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Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a delicious and satisfying vegan dish that combines the perfect balance of crunch and flavor. This recipe features crispy tofu cubes baked to perfection and tossed in a spicy, savory gochujang sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Pair it with rice or fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal that everyone will love. Dive into the vibrant flavors of Korea right from your kitchen!

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz extra firm tofu
• 1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 3 tbsp gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup gochujang (red chili paste)
• 3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat 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 with tamari, cornstarch, and breadcrumbs until coated.
4. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet without overlapping.
5. Bake for 25 minutes; turn off oven and let sit for an additional 5 minutes.
6. While baking, whisk sauce ingredients together in a pot over medium heat until combined.
7. Thicken sauce with cornstarch mixed with water; stir until bubbly.
8. Toss baked tofu gently with half of the sauce and serve over rice or veggies.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added flavor, experiment by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy into the bowl. Ensure even coating of cornstarch on tofu for maximum crispiness during baking.