Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. With its crispy exterior and spicy, savory sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends. Pair it with fresh veggies and rice for a satisfying vegan meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it an easy choice for dinner.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of gochujang, garlic, and ginger packs each bite with vibrant flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with fresh vegetables, or as part of a larger spread—it’s perfect for any setting.
• Vegan-Friendly: This dish caters to plant-based diets without sacrificing taste or texture.
• Crispy Texture: Baked to perfection, the tofu gets wonderfully crispy while remaining tender inside.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the tofu, ensuring maximum crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy tossing of ingredients and ensures even coating of the tofu with sauces.

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.

Tofu Base

• 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)

Sauce Ingredients

• 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 the tofu will bake evenly and become 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 moisture.
3. Cut the tofu into about 1-inch cubes and add them to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

1. Toss the tofu cubes gently with tamari or soy sauce until coated.
2. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and mix well.
3. Add gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure every piece is well-coated.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu

Place the coated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring no pieces touch each other to achieve maximum crispiness. Bake for 25 minutes, then turn off the oven and let sit for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

While the tofu bakes:
1. In a small pot, whisk together all sauce ingredients except for water/cornstarch.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth.
3. Add this mixture to the pot and heat over low/medium heat until bubbling and thickened.

Step 6: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once baked, allow the tofu to cool slightly before transferring it to a bowl. Toss it with half of your prepared sauce until well-coated.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu over rice alongside cucumber, carrot, avocado, or sesame seeds. Enjoy this delicious dish either on its own or as part of a larger meal!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and toppings. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty feast, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Fresh Veggies

• Cucumber Slices: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber slices add a cool contrast to the spicy tofu.
• Shredded Carrots: A sweet crunch that complements the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, avocado adds a luxurious touch to your bowl.

Over Rice

• White Rice: The perfect base, allowing the bold flavors of the tofu and sauce to shine.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option with added fiber, brown rice enhances the dish’s nutritional profile.
• Quinoa: For a protein-packed alternative, quinoa provides a nutty flavor and fluffy texture.

As a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Combine with mixed greens for a light and nutritious meal; top with sesame dressing for added flavor.
• Kale Salad: Toss crispy tofu with kale, olive oil, and lemon juice for a nutritious boost.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

To achieve the best results with your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, follow these simple tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Press the Tofu Well: Remove excess moisture by pressing the tofu before cooking. This helps it crisp up nicely in the oven.
• Use High Heat: Baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit ensures that your tofu gets golden brown and crispy without burning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange tofu pieces on the baking sheet without touching each other. This promotes even cooking and prevents sogginess.
• Coat Evenly: Make sure each piece of tofu is well-coated in cornstarch and sauce for optimal flavor and crunch.
• Let it Rest After Baking: Allowing baked tofu to sit for a few minutes enhances its texture as it firms up slightly.
• Serve Immediately: For the crispiest experience, serve your crispy gochujang tofu right after tossing it in sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Pairing your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds vibrant color and pairs well with gochujang’s spice; steam until tender-crisp.
2. Kimchi: This traditional fermented side brings tangy flavor and probiotics that enhance any Korean meal; serve chilled or at room temperature.
3. Sesame Noodles: Toss cooked noodles in sesame oil, soy sauce, and scallions for a quick side dish that complements the main course perfectly.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sauté bok choy in garlic for a healthy green side that balances out the spiciness of the tofu.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting flavors; include seaweed and tofu cubes for extra heartiness.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with spicy gochujang; simply roast until tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu can be a delight, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the pressing step: Not pressing the tofu properly can lead to soggy pieces. Always wrap it in a towel and press to remove excess moisture.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If tofu pieces touch each other, they won’t crisp up. Ensure they have space on the baking sheet for even cooking.
• Using too much sauce: Adding all the sauce at once may make the tofu soggy. Toss with only half of it and serve the rest on the side.
• Ignoring cooking times: Don’t skip the resting time after baking. Letting tofu sit in the oven helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Gochujang can vary in heat. Taste your sauce before adding, and adjust according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure it cools completely before sealing.

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Consider freezing without sauce to maintain texture.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes but expect some loss of crispiness.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a bit of oil until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?

Soft tofu won’t hold its shape as well as extra firm tofu, so it’s best to stick with extra firm for that crispy texture.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure you use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and check that your gochujang is gluten-free too.

What can I serve with Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even in a wrap. Feel free to get creative!

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can pre-bake the tofu and store it. Just reheat before serving for that delightful crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or varying the spice levels. This dish is perfect for a quick vegan dinner that everyone will love!