Korean Tofu Recipes

Korean Tofu Recipe [Braised Tofu]

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Korean braised tofu is the best side dish that you can make during the weekdays as it’s simple to prepare and only requires a few ingredients only.

Tofu is one of the most used ingredients in Korean cuisine as it’s used in a lot of popular dishes. One of the reasons why it’s so popular is because it’s rich in protein and essential nutrients.

The Korean Tofu recipe that I will be sharing today can be served as a side dish. It is coated in delicious spices and braised in a savory soy-based sauce, loaded with aroma.

What is Korean Braised Tofu?

Korean braised tofu, or Dubu Jorim (두부조림), is a popular dish in Korea. Its spicy braised tofu is served as a side dish enjoyed with fried vegetables, or a bowl of steamed rice.

It also makes an excellent standalone dish that can be served both hot or cold, making it perfect for every occasion.

korean-brasied-tofu

Which Tofu Should You Use 

The type of tofu you use in this recipe is very important as there are various kinds that you can get in the market. Korean block tofu comes in three types:

  • Firm: This tofu is best for pan-frying and is typically used in braised tofu. It holds up pretty well during cooking.
  • Soft: Soft tofu is mostly used in stews such as kimchi jjigae. It is very close to firm tofu.
  • Silken: Silken tofu is very smooth and soft. It can be turned into any shape you desire. This type of tofu is served fresh with any sauce and is sometimes boiled before serving.

Korean Tofu Recipe [Braised Tofu]

It is very easy to make Korean braised tofu and you can make it if you are short on time. Just follow this recipe.

                    ⏱ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Cook Time: 15 minutes | 🍽 Serving: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 pack of firm tofu (18-oz)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp water
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tsp Korean red pepper flakes
  • 1 large scallion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

Directions 

  1. Cut the tofu into small rectangular pieces or squares. Pat the tofu dry with a paper towel.
  2. Take a small bowl and mix all the sauce ingredients.
  3. Take a large skillet and add oil to it. Add tofu pieces in when the pan is hot and sear each side over medium to high heat. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. Once the tofu is golden brown, add the sauce to the pan and make sure it gets under the tofu pieces.
  5. Simmer tofu in the sauce for 3-4 minutes over medium heat and make sure to flip them over and spoon the sauce over the tofu. Top it off with fresh chopped cilantro.
  6. Serve hot with a bowl of steamed rice.

Nutrition 

Serving: 1 | Calories: 240kcal | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Sugars: 8g | Fat: 19g | Fiber: 4g

braised-korean-tofu-recipe

Other Recipes to Try

Notes

  • Make sure the sauce is thickened when you turn down the flame. If it’s still too runny, you can take out the tofu, and simmer the sauce for 1-2 minutes until it thickens.
  • If you can’t get your hands on Korean red pepper flakes, you can substitute it with paprika or normal red pepper.
  • If you have low spice tolerance, I recommend using half the amount of spice and then increasing the level later on after tasting.
  • I like to add fried bell peppers to the recipe as it makes it more aromatic and flavorful, but it’s completely optional.
  • You can also garnish braised tofu with chopped green onions.

Emily is a tech and entertainment writer who loves the art of writing for research-based articles in different niches. As she translates her thoughts into words, they inspire others to do so too!

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