Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The tofu becomes perfectly crispy in the oven, while the gochujang sauce adds a spicy kick that elevates this dish to new heights. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive dish for guests, it pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and rice, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil delivers a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or toss it into salads for added crunch and flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this vegan-friendly recipe is guilt-free.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To create your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking tofu, ensuring it gets crispy all around.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together evenly before baking.
• Whisk: Essential for blending sauce ingredients seamlessly.

Ingredients

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 cooks evenly and gets 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 and lightly press it to absorb additional moisture.
3. Cut the tofu into about 1-inch cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

1. Toss the cubed tofu with tamari or soy sauce until well coated.
2. Next, sprinkle in cornstarch and mix again until each piece is evenly coated.
3. Finally, add breadcrumbs to ensure a crunchy exterior.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu

1. Arrange the coated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring that no pieces overlap. This promotes crispiness.
2. Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
3. After 25 minutes, turn off the oven but leave the tofu inside for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the tofu bakes, prepare your sauce:
1. In a small pot, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for water and cornstarch until smooth.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until combined, then add this mixture to the pot with other sauce ingredients.
3. Heat over low-medium heat while whisking until it bubbles and thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once baked, let the tofu cool for about 5 minutes before transferring it to a bowl:
1. Toss half of your prepared sauce with tofu until well coated.
2. Reserve remaining sauce for serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu over rice with sliced cucumbers, carrots, avocado, and sesame seeds on top! Enjoy alongside broccoli or on its own for an amazing meal!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a delicious and versatile dish that pairs well with various side options. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve this crispy tofu over a bed of fluffy white rice for a comforting and filling dish.

In a Salad Bowl

• Combine the tofu with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a fresh, vibrant salad.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the tofu with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for extra crunch and flavor.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top after tossing with sauce for added texture and nuttiness.

As a Wrap Filling

• Use the crispy tofu as a filling in lettuce wraps or rice paper rolls for a fun, handheld option.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

To achieve the best results when making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, consider these helpful tips.

• Press the tofu: Make sure to press the tofu well before cooking to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispier texture.
• Use cornstarch liberally: Coating the tofu in cornstarch helps create that delightful crunch when baked.
• Avoid overcrowding: Space out the tofu pieces on the baking sheet to allow even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Let it cool slightly: After baking, let the tofu rest before tossing it in sauce; this helps maintain its crispy exterior.
• Adjust seasonings as needed: Feel free to tweak the gochujang or soy sauce amounts according to your spice preference.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the flavors of the tofu.

2. Kimchi
   This traditional Korean side brings tangy spice that pairs perfectly with the savory tofu.

3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing enhances texture and provides a cooling effect.

4. Quinoa
   A protein-packed grain like quinoa makes for a great base that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the dish.

5. Sautéed Bok Choy
   Lightly sautéed bok choy adds crunch while bringing its own unique flavor to complement the main dish.

6. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting addition that balances out the spicy elements of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and result in a better dish.

• Not pressing the tofu: Failing to properly press the tofu can leave excess moisture, leading to soggy pieces. Take the time to remove as much liquid as possible before cooking.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tofu pieces close together prevents them from getting crispy. Arrange them in a single layer with space between each piece on the baking sheet.
• Skipping the cornstarch step: Cornstarch is essential for achieving that crispy texture. Don’t skip this ingredient; it helps create a delightful crust on the tofu.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If you don’t let the sauce thicken properly, it may not cling well to the tofu. Be patient and ensure it reaches a bubbling consistency before removing it from heat.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Everyone has different spice tolerances. Taste your sauce before adding it to the tofu, and adjust the gochujang accordingly for your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any remaining sauce separate to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, but note that this may reduce crispiness.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu might raise some questions. Here are answers to help you enjoy this dish even more.

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds depth and spiciness to dishes.

Can I make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your gochujang is labeled gluten-free.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To keep it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.

What can I serve with Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

Pair this dish with steamed rice, fresh vegetables like broccoli or cucumber, or even add it to a salad for extra protein.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various sauces or side dishes according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today for a quick and satisfying meal!