If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting textures, this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine crispy, golden tofu slices lovingly simmered in a spicy-sweet sauce, infused with garlic, and finished with the nutty aroma of sesame oil. This dish captures the essence of Korean home cooking in every bite and transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant plate of deliciousness you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With a handful of straightforward ingredients, this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe brings together every element to deliver an amazing balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays its part, from the firmness of the tofu to the spice-packed sauce, creating a harmonious bowl that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Firm tofu (1 block, 14 oz or 400g): Pressed to remove moisture so it crisps up perfectly when pan-fried.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Essential for frying the tofu to a golden brown without sticking.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Preferably Korean soy sauce for soup — it provides the salty umami backbone.
- Gochugaru (1 tablespoon): Korean red pepper flakes add vibrant color and a mild, smoky heat.
- Gochujang (1 tablespoon): Korean chili paste delivers deep, complex spiciness and sweetness.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances the savory and spicy flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Rice vinegar or mirin (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang and brightness to the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm aroma and depth.
- Toasted sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Provides a rich, nutty finish that makes the flavor sing.
- Green onion (1, finely chopped): For fresh, crisp garnish and a pop of green.
- Sesame seeds (1 teaspoon): Sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.
How to Make Korean Braised Tofu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by slicing your pressed tofu into half-inch thick pieces. Pat each slice dry with paper towels to remove any lingering moisture. This extra step is key to making sure the tofu fries up to a perfect golden, crispy texture — no sogginess allowed here!
Step 2: Fry the Tofu
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place your tofu slices into the pan, giving them space to crisp evenly. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until beautifully golden brown. If your pan is small, fry the tofu in batches to avoid crowding, which could cause steaming instead of frying.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
While the tofu is cooking, whisk together soy sauce, gochugaru, gochujang, sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly until the sugar dissolves, creating a sauce that’s rich, spicy, and slightly tangy — the heart and soul of this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
After frying all the tofu, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Pour your prepared sauce into the same skillet and warm it gently over medium heat until it begins to simmer. This lets the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly, ready to perfectly coat the tofu.
Step 5: Braise the Tofu in Sauce
Return the tofu slices to the skillet, nestling each piece in the sauce. Let them simmer gently for 5 to 8 minutes, turning once halfway through so every side soaks up the spicy glaze. The tofu will absorb the sauce wonderfully, making each bite a flavorful delight.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the tofu is tender and caramelized with the sauce, transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top to add freshness and a hint of crunch. This step elevates both the appearance and taste, making it almost too pretty to eat!
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve your Korean Braised Tofu hot or at room temperature. It’s fantastic as a flavorful side dish alongside rice or as a hearty main that embraces simple Korean flavors in every bite.
How to Serve Korean Braised Tofu Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds are a classic way to finish this dish, adding subtle crunch and a fresh herbal lift. If you want to get a little creative, a few thinly sliced red chili peppers or a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro can add color and a slightly different flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This Korean Braised Tofu Recipe shines alongside fluffy steamed rice to soak up the sauce. It also pairs beautifully with simple vegetable banchan like kimchi, seasoned spinach, or pickled radish to create a well-rounded Korean-inspired meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, try serving the braised tofu on a bed of stir-fried noodles or cold soba for a textured contrast. You can also use the tofu as a topping for bibimbap or a hearty salad to incorporate Korean flavors in fun, unexpected ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Korean Braised Tofu Recipe leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
While tofu can be frozen, for the best texture, it’s ideal to freeze it after braising. Place the cooled tofu and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid breaking the tofu. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help loosen the sauce as it warms. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use soft or silken tofu instead of firm tofu?
Firm tofu is best for this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe because it holds its shape well during frying and braising. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and may fall apart during cooking.
Where can I find gochujang and gochugaru?
Gochujang and gochugaru are available in most Asian markets and many grocery stores with an international aisle. You can also find them online. Using these authentic ingredients really elevates the flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
This recipe has a medium level of spiciness thanks to gochugaru and gochujang. You can adjust the heat by reducing the amount of chili paste or flakes to suit your preference.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! This Korean Braised Tofu Recipe is naturally vegan, especially when using plant-based soy sauce and no animal products.
What can I substitute for sesame oil if I don’t have any?
If you’re out of toasted sesame oil, you can substitute with a small amount of neutral oil like vegetable or canola, but the distinctive nutty flavor will be missing. Toasted sesame oil adds a signature aroma that’s hard to replace.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Korean Braised Tofu Recipe — it’s simple yet packed with layers of flavor that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re a longtime tofu fan or just looking to try Korean cuisine at home, this recipe is a fantastic place to start. Give it a whirl and enjoy a delicious meal full of comforting spice and heartwarming goodness!
