Name: Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 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); 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

Introduction

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for any meal. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it’s coated in a spicy, sweet gochujang sauce that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re vegan or simply love bold flavors, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.

The image shows a white bowl filled with layers of food starting with a base of white rice. On top, there are bright orange carrot ribbons on the left, bright green avocado chunks below the carrots, crispy dark brown seasoned tofu cubes stacked in the middle, and thin pale green cucumber slices on the right. The bowl is garnished with small green herbs, chopped green onions, black and white sesame seeds, and red chili flakes. Next to the bowl, dark wooden chopsticks rest across the top edge on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl of chili flakes nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 16 ounce block extra firm tofu

1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce

1 tablespoon cornstarch

3 tablespoons gluten free breadcrumbs (can substitute regular breadcrumbs)

1/4 cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce

1/4 cup gochujang/red chili paste (check if gluten free)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 tablespoons vegetable broth or water

3 tablespoons honey (substitute 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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Remove the tofu from the package and drain off excess liquid. Wrap it in a towel and lightly press to absorb moisture.

Step 3: Cut the tofu into about 1 inch cubes and place them in a bowl.

Step 4: Toss the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, then sprinkle with cornstarch and coat evenly with breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Arrange the tofu cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure pieces do not touch to ensure crispiness.

Step 6: Bake for 25 minutes. After baking, turn off the oven and let the tofu sit inside for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: While the tofu bakes, whisk together tamari, gochujang, tomato paste, vegetable broth, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small pot.

Step 8: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water, then add to the sauce pot. Heat over low to medium heat, whisking until the sauce bubbles and thickens. Remove from heat to allow further thickening.

Step 9: When tofu is done, let it cool for 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and toss with half of the sauce, reserving the rest for serving.

Step 10: Serve the tofu with rice and your choice of fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot, avocado, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Broccoli is also a delicious option.

Tips & Variations

Press the tofu thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible, which helps achieve maximum crispiness.

For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup.

Feel free to use regular breadcrumbs if gluten is not a concern.

Add extra garlic or ginger if you enjoy stronger flavors.

Serve with steamed vegetables or over a bed of noodles for variation.

FAQs

Can I use soft or silken tofu instead of extra firm?

Extra firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up well. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and will likely fall apart during cooking.

Is gochujang paste gluten free?

Many gochujang pastes contain wheat, so it’s important to check the label if you need a gluten-free option. There are gluten-free versions available from some brands.