Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is infused with a spicy-sweet sauce that elevates simple tofu to gourmet status. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this tofu will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of gochujang and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering sauce that brings bold flavors to your dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, fresh vegetables, or even in a wrap for a nutritious meal that suits various occasions.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with plant-based protein and low in calories, this crispy tofu dish fits well into a balanced diet.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy delicious flavors without animal products by substituting honey with maple syrup.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your crispy gochujang Korean tofu, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking and crisping of the tofu cubes.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce consistency by thoroughly mixing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Tofu

• 1 16 ounce block extra firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons gluten free bread crumbs (can sub regular bread crumbs)

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 cook evenly from the moment it goes in.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

1. Remove the tofu from its package and drain off excess liquid.
2. Wrap it in a towel and gently press to absorb more 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 all pieces are coated.
2. Add cornstarch to the bowl, tossing again until evenly distributed.
3. Finally, add gluten-free bread crumbs until each piece is well coated.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu

Place the coated tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure no pieces touch each other; this helps them become crispier. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then turn off the oven and let sit for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

While waiting for your tofu, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for water and cornstarch in a small pot. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth, then add it to the pot. Heat over low/medium heat until bubbling and thickened.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

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

Step 7: Serve

Serve your crispy gochujang Korean tofu alongside rice, cucumbers, carrots, avocados, and sesame seeds. This dish also pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or can be enjoyed on its own!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This crispy gochujang Korean tofu dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides for a delightful meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve this tofu with fluffy white rice. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.

In a Salad

• Toss the crispy tofu into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing meal.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the tofu with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a nutritious boost.

As a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or rice paper wraps to create delicious wraps filled with the tofu and your choice of veggies.

Over Noodles

• Serve the crispy tofu over a bed of noodles, such as soba or rice noodles, drizzled with extra sauce for added flavor.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Perfecting the crispy texture of gochujang Korean tofu requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your tofu comes out perfectly every time.

• Press the Tofu: Removing excess moisture from the tofu helps it become crispier during baking.
• Use Cornstarch: Coating the tofu in cornstarch before baking creates a crunchy exterior.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Place the tofu cubes on a baking sheet without touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece.
• Bake at High Heat: Cooking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit ensures that the tofu crisps up nicely while cooking through.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the baked tofu to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps maintain its crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Complementing your crispy gochujang Korean tofu with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Consider these tasty options:

1. Vegetable Fried Rice: A mix of sautéed vegetables and rice flavored with soy sauce. Quick to prepare and adds great texture.
2. Kimchi: Fermented vegetables that offer tangy and spicy flavors, perfect for balancing out the dish’s richness.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil; it’s light and zesty.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until golden brown provide a sweet contrast to the spicy tofu.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances your meal’s umami flavors and keeps things comforting.
6. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt serves as an easy finger food that packs protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Not pressing the tofu: Failing to remove excess moisture can lead to soggy tofu. Make sure to press the tofu before cutting it into cubes.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. Don’t skip this step; toss the tofu in cornstarch thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing tofu pieces too close together will prevent them from crisping up. Ensure there’s space between each piece on the baking sheet.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the tofu but not too thick that it clumps. Adjust with water or broth as needed while cooking.
• Not letting it rest after baking: Allowing baked tofu to sit for a few minutes helps it firm up and enhances its crispy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Place cooled tofu in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that freezing may alter the texture slightly.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but may result in softer tofu.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a touch of oil if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu.

What is gochujang?

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

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

How do I customize my Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

You can add different vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

The total time for preparing and cooking this dish is about 45 minutes, including prep time and baking.

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on tofu, you can try using chicken or turkey if you prefer meat options.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a flavorful and versatile dish perfect for any dinner table. With its delightful crunch and spicy kick, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or serve it over grains for a complete meal!