Description
A delicious and spicy Gochujang Tofu recipe featuring crispy baked tofu cubes tossed in a flavorful Korean chili paste sauce, perfect for a quick and healthy vegan meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 1 pack extra-firm tofu (12-14oz)
- 2 tbsp avocado oil (can substitute vegetable oil)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Sauce
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp Gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (can substitute tamari)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
Garnish (optional)
- 2 scallions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Press Tofu: Remove as much liquid as possible from the tofu by pressing it with a clean kitchen towel, paper towel, or a tofu press to achieve crispiness when baked.
- Prepare Tofu Cubes: Tear the tofu into nuggets or cut into cubes. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated to help with crisping.
- Bake Tofu: Spread the tofu pieces evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the tofu is crispy and golden brown on the outside.
- Make Gochujang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), and rice vinegar until smooth. Set the sauce aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Tofu and Sauce: Add the crispy baked tofu and the prepared Gochujang sauce to the pan. Toss together gently to coat the tofu evenly with the spicy sauce.
- Serve: Optionally garnish with sliced scallions for added freshness and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential to remove excess moisture and achieve crispy texture.
- Avocado oil is recommended for its high smoke point but vegetable oil works well too.
- Adjust the amount of Gochujang to your preferred spice level.
- Use gluten-free tamari if avoiding gluten.
- This dish can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 140g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Gochujang tofu, Korean tofu recipe, spicy tofu, baked tofu, vegan Korean food
