Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu. This recipe is a game-changer! It’s not just crispy and packed with flavor, but it also brings a wonderful warmth to any meal. Whether you’re whipping up dinner on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a gathering, this tofu is sure to shine on your table.

The best part? It’s wonderfully versatile! You can serve it with rice and veggies for a quick meal or use it as a topping for salads. Trust me, once you taste this delightful dish, it’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making dinner a breeze!
• Flavorful: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, this recipe is both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable: Pair it with your favorite veggies or grains for a complete meal tailored to your tastes.
• Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for everyone at the table, regardless of dietary preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu:

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 Thickening the Sauce

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water

Variations

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun twists you can try:

• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas when baking the tofu for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more gochujang or some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Change the sweetener: Use agave syrup or another liquid sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup.
• Make it saucier: Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer more sauce to drizzle over your rice and veggies!

How to Make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Start by removing the tofu from its package and drain off any excess liquid. Wrapping it in a towel and pressing lightly helps absorb moisture, which is key for that perfect crispiness. Then, cut the tofu into about 1-inch cubes and toss them into a bowl.

Step 2: Coat the Tofu

Next, coat those tofu cubes with tamari or soy sauce first—this adds amazing flavor. Then sprinkle on cornstarch followed by gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure every piece is well-coated; this step ensures your tofu gets that delightful crispy texture when baked.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

Spread the coated tofu cubes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It’s important that they don’t touch each other; this allows air to circulate around each piece and makes them crispier. Bake them for about 25 minutes until golden brown, then turn off the oven and let them sit for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your tofu bakes, whisk together all sauce ingredients (except the water and cornstarch) in a small pot over low/medium heat until bubbling. In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth then add it to the pot. Whisk well while heating until the sauce thickens slightly before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Once your tofu has cooled for about five minutes after baking, transfer it into a bowl and toss with half of your delicious sauce—save the rest for drizzling later! I love serving mine with fluffy white rice alongside fresh cucumbers, carrots, avocado, and sesame seeds. You could also enjoy it plain or with steamed broccoli!

Enjoy making this Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu! It’s bound to bring joy not just to your taste buds but also to those gathered around your table.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Creating the perfect crispy tofu doesn’t have to be a challenge; with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights.

• Press the tofu well: Removing excess moisture from the tofu helps it absorb flavors and achieve that desired crispy texture during baking.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, gluten-free breadcrumbs can still give you that satisfying crunch while keeping the dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensuring that the tofu pieces are spaced apart allows hot air to circulate, making sure every piece gets evenly crispy without steaming each other.
• Let it sit after baking: Allowing the baked tofu to rest for a few minutes before tossing it in sauce helps maintain its crispiness, so you get that delightful crunch with every bite.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference. A little goes a long way, but if you love spice, don’t be shy!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch that complements the tofu.
• Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions bring a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both taste and presentation.
• Sliced chili: For those who enjoy an extra kick, adding thin slices of fresh chili can elevate your dish with vibrant color and heat.

Side Dishes

• Steamed white rice: A classic pairing, fluffy steamed rice provides a neutral base that soaks up the delicious gochujang sauce perfectly.
• Stir-fried vegetables: Quick stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors of the tofu.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly with rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the bold flavors of the tofu.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado brings richness and balances out the spiciness of the dish—plus, it looks gorgeous on your plate!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu will surely impress at any dinner table. Enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy quick and nutritious meals throughout the week. The tofu stays deliciously crispy when stored properly, making it a fantastic option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover tofu to cool completely before storing.
• Place the tofu in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To keep the sauce separate, store it in a small container.

Freezing

• Cool the tofu completely before freezing.
• Place the tofu pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tofu to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Note: Sauce can be frozen in a separate container for up to 2 months as well.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Spread the chilled or frozen tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes if refrigerated, or 25-30 minutes if frozen, until heated through and crispy again.
• Drizzle any reserved sauce over the top before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this dish that might help you out!

Can I make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

Try adding sesame seeds or sliced green onions as a garnish. You could also serve it with pickled vegetables for added tanginess!

Is it possible to use another type of sauce with this Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different sauces like sriracha or teriyaki for varied flavors while keeping the base recipe intact.

What should I serve with Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad. Get creative with your sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu as much as I do! It’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will certainly impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try different veggies and sides—make it your own! Happy cooking!