Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe shines with its crispy texture and spicy kick. Enjoy it as a main course or as a delightful addition to your favorite sides. The unique combination of gochujang and toasted sesame oil elevates this tofu dish into an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of gochujang and garlic adds a spicy depth that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, fresh vegetables, or even in a salad for a nutritious boost.
• Healthy Ingredients: This recipe is rich in plant-based protein and low in fat, making it a great choice for any health-conscious eater.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and serve!

Tools and Preparation

To make the preparation process smooth and efficient, it’s important to have the right tools on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for crispy tofu.
• Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for ensuring sauces are smooth without lumps.

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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
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water

How to Make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your tofu will bake evenly and become perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

1. Remove the tofu from its package and drain off any excess liquid.
2. Wrap the tofu in a towel to absorb more moisture; lightly press it down.
3. Cut the tofu into cubes about 1 inch in size and place them in a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

1. Toss the tofu cubes with tamari or soy sauce until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu; mix well until all pieces are coated.
3. Add gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece gets an even coating.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu

1. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread out the coated tofu cubes on the sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other—this helps them crisp up better.
3. Bake for 25 minutes, then turn off the oven but leave the tofu inside for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While waiting for your tofu, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for water and cornstarch in a small pot over medium heat until combined.
1. In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth.
2. Add this mixture to your sauce pot; continue to whisk while heating until it bubbles and thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine Tofu and Sauce

After removing the baked tofu from the oven:
1. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before transferring it to another bowl.
2. Drizzle half of your sauce over the warm tofu and toss gently until well-coated.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve your crispy gochujang Korean tofu alongside rice, cucumber slices, carrots, avocado slices, or sesame seeds. Feel free to add broccoli or enjoy it on its own!

Enjoy this delicious meal that’s not just good but also good for you!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Serving Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a delightful experience that allows you to explore various flavors and textures. This versatile dish pairs well with numerous sides and toppings, making it perfect for any meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber – Sliced or diced, cucumber adds a refreshing crunch that balances the spicy tofu.
• Carrots – Shredded or julienned, carrots offer sweetness and a vibrant color contrast.
• Avocado – Creamy avocado complements the crispy texture of the tofu and enhances the overall dish.
• Broccoli – Steamed or roasted broccoli provides nutrients and a satisfying bite.

Over Rice

• White Rice – A classic pairing, fluffy white rice absorbs the delicious sauce and rounds out the meal.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice adds fiber and a nutty flavor.
• Quinoa – This protein-rich grain serves as an excellent base for the tofu while adding a unique taste.

As Part of a Bowl

• Korean Bowl – Layer the tofu over rice with pickled vegetables for an authentic Korean experience.
• Buddha Bowl – Combine with grains, greens, and sauces for a nourishing meal packed with variety.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

To ensure your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Extra Firm Tofu – Opting for extra firm tofu helps maintain its shape during cooking, resulting in crispier pieces.
• Press the Tofu – Removing excess moisture by pressing the tofu before cooking enhances its ability to absorb flavors and achieve crispiness.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan – Spacing out the tofu on the baking sheet prevents steaming and promotes even browning.
• Experiment with Marinades – Feel free to play around with different marinades to customize flavors according to your taste preferences.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on the tofu while it bakes; bake longer for extra crunch if desired.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoying the tofu right after cooking ensures maximum crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

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

1. Steamed Bok Choy – Lightly steamed bok choy brings a subtle sweetness that complements the spiciness of the tofu.
2. Kimchi Fried Rice – This flavorful dish combines kimchi with rice for an exciting side that enhances your meal’s depth.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and provide essential nutrients when roasted until golden.
4. Sesame Spinach Salad – A fresh spinach salad drizzled with sesame dressing offers a light contrast to the hearty tofu.
5. Miso Soup – A warm miso soup can be both comforting and flavorful, making it an ideal starter or side dish.
6. Pickled Radishes – Crunchy pickled radishes add tanginess that cuts through richness and spices beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the pressing step: Not pressing the tofu can lead to a soggy texture. Always press your tofu to remove excess moisture for that perfect crispiness.

• Using low-quality gochujang: A poor-quality gochujang can dull the flavor of your dish. Invest in a good brand to ensure your sauce is rich and spicy.

• Crowding the baking sheet: Placing tofu pieces too close together can prevent them from getting crispy. Arrange them in a single layer, with space between each piece.

• Overcooking the sauce: Allowing the sauce to cook too long can make it overly thick or burnt. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat as soon as it bubbles.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh toppings like sesame seeds or green onions can diminish the dish’s visual appeal and flavor. Always add a finishing touch for extra taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Place cooled tofu in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, note that texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a delicious plant-based dish made with marinated tofu cubes baked until crispy and coated with a spicy gochujang sauce.

How do I make my tofu extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you press out as much moisture as possible before coating it with cornstarch and baking at a high temperature.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce and check that your gochujang is gluten-free.

What vegetables pair well with Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, or any of your favorite stir-fried veggies.

Can I use another protein instead of tofu?

Yes! You can substitute firm or extra-firm tempeh or even chicken if you prefer a different protein source while maintaining similar flavors.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Try this recipe today for a quick, nutritious meal that’s sure to impress!