Easy Spicy Dubu Jorim Braised Tofu Recipe Perfect for Quick Korean Meals
A quick and flavorful Korean braised tofu dish featuring a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce that crisps tofu on the outside while keeping it tender inside. Perfect for busy weeknights and tofu skeptics alike.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
Scale
- 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into thick slices
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- Sesame seeds, toasted (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Press and slice the tofu: Wrap the block of tofu in paper towels, place on a plate, and set a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes to remove excess water. Then slice the tofu into 1/2-inch thick rectangles.
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sugar or honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and water or vegetable broth. Whisk until smooth and pourable.
- Sear the tofu: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and place tofu slices in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Braise in sauce: Pour the sauce over the tofu in the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, spooning sauce over tofu occasionally until sauce thickens and tofu absorbs flavors.
- Final touches: Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the tofu just before serving.
Notes
Pressing tofu is essential for texture and flavor absorption. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to get a crispy exterior. Keep heat low during braising to prevent drying out. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Honey can be swapped with maple syrup or agave nectar for vegan sweetness. Add a splash of water if sauce reduces too quickly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (a
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 525
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 16
Keywords: spicy tofu, dubu jorim, Korean tofu recipe, braised tofu, gochujang tofu, quick Korean meals, vegan Korean recipe