Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe is a delightful blend of flavor and texture, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish offers a satisfying crunch and a spicy kick that everyone will love. The tofu is baked to crispy perfection and pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies and rice, ensuring a nutritious vegan meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang and other spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Customizable: You can serve this tofu with various sides, making it versatile for any dining occasion.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein and healthy ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for a wholesome meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process, ensuring everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking tofu, helping it crisp up nicely.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or messes.

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.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your tofu starts cooking evenly right from the beginning.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

• Remove the tofu from its package.
• Drain off excess liquid.
• Wrap it in a towel and lightly press to absorb moisture.

Step 3: Cut the Tofu

Cut the pressed tofu into about 1-inch cubes. Add these cubes to a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Coat the Tofu

• Toss the tofu with tamari or soy sauce until coated.
• Sprinkle in cornstarch and gluten-free breadcrumbs, mixing gently until every piece is well covered.

Step 5: Bake the Tofu

• Place the coated tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Ensure that none of the pieces are touching; this helps achieve maximum crispiness.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Afterward, turn off the oven but let them sit inside for an additional 5 minutes to finish crisping up.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

While the tofu bakes, whisk together all sauce ingredients (except for water/cornstarch) in a small pot over low heat.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch and water. Add this mixture to your sauce in the pot. Continue whisking until it bubbles and thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

Step 8: Combine Tofu and Sauce

Once done baking, allow your tofu to cool for about 5 minutes. Transfer it into a bowl and toss with half of your prepared sauce until each piece is well-coated.

Step 9: Serve Your Dish

Serve your crispy gochujang Korean tofu with rice and your choice of vegetables such as cucumber, carrot, avocado, or broccoli. Drizzle more sauce on top if desired!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

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

With Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber Slices: Crisp and refreshing, cucumber adds a nice crunch.
• Shredded Carrots: Sweet and colorful, shredded carrots provide a delightful contrast.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spiciness of the tofu beautifully.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• White Rice: A classic choice, fluffy white rice absorbs the sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: Nutty brown rice offers additional fiber and nutrients.
• Quinoa: For a protein boost, serve the tofu over quinoa for a nutritious twist.

As Part of a Bowl

• Korean Rice Bowl: Layer the crispy tofu with vegetables and rice for a satisfying meal.
• Tofu Salad Bowl: Combine with leafy greens, nuts, and seeds for a hearty salad option.

How to Perfect Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Getting your tofu crispy is key to enjoying this dish. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve that perfect texture.

• Press the Tofu: Remove excess moisture by pressing the tofu before cooking. This helps it become crispy.
• Use Cornstarch Generously: Coating the tofu in cornstarch creates an extra crunchy exterior when baked.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Space out the tofu cubes on the baking sheet. This promotes even cooking and crispiness.
• Bake at High Heat: Cooking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit gives the tofu a beautiful golden brown color while keeping it tender inside.
• Let It Rest After Baking: Allowing the tofu to sit after baking enhances its texture before tossing it in sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu can take your meal to another level. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy, vibrant side that complements the flavors of the dish.
2. Kimchi: Fermented vegetables add spice and tanginess, enhancing your meal’s complexity.
3. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy offers a mild flavor that balances well with spicy tofu.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a comforting sweetness and pair beautifully with gochujang flavors.
5. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles offer a refreshing contrast and are easy to prepare.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami flavor and rounds out your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor.

• Skipping the pressing step: Failing to press the tofu can result in soggy pieces. Always drain and press your tofu to remove excess moisture for a crispier outcome.
• Not using enough cornstarch: Insufficient cornstarch can lead to a less crispy texture. Ensure each piece of tofu is well coated with cornstarch before baking.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tofu cubes close together can prevent them from crisping up. Spread them out on the baking sheet, allowing space between each piece.
• Ignoring the sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the tofu. Make sure to whisk in the cornstarch mixture thoroughly and heat until bubbling for a perfect consistency.
• Underestimating cooking time: Removing tofu too early may leave it chewy instead of crispy. Stick to the recommended bake time and let it rest afterward for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Place cooled tofu in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember that freezing may affect its texture slightly.

Reheating Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

• Oven: Preheat your oven 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 this may make the tofu less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of oil until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is a flavorful dish made with extra firm tofu, coated in a spicy gochujang sauce, then baked until golden and crispy. It’s perfect as a main dish or side!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

How do I customize my Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu?

You can add different vegetables or serve it over quinoa instead of rice for variety. Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more or less gochujang according to your taste.

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

The total preparation time is about 45 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?

While this recipe focuses on tofu, you could adapt it using tempeh or seitan for similar results, but cooking times may vary.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This dish pairs wonderfully with various veggies and grains, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or meal prep ideas, this recipe has something for everyone. Give it a try and enjoy exploring different combinations!