Dinner

Korean Gochujang Tofu Recipe

Name: Korean Gochujang Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 block extra-firm tofu (16 ounces), pressed and cubed; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); Sliced green onions; Toasted sesame seeds

ByClara Bennett October 4, 2026October 4, 2026

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Introduction

This Korean Tofu recipe features crispy fried tofu coated in a spicy, savory gochujang sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty plant-based meal.

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a bed of fluffy white rice as the bottom layer. On top, there are small, shiny orange cubes of tofu coated in a glossy sauce. The tofu pieces are scattered evenly and sprinkled with white sesame seeds. Bright green chopped scallions are spread over the tofu and rice, adding a fresh touch. Wooden chopsticks rest on the edge of the plate on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
1 block extra-firm tofu (16 ounces), pressed and cubed
Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch until smooth and combined.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and fry, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3: Pour the sauce over the fried tofu in the pan. Stir well to coat every piece evenly and cook for 5 to 8 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 4: Remove from heat and transfer the tofu to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Tips & Variations

Press the tofu well for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, ensuring it fries crispy.
For extra depth, add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of sugar to the sauce if you prefer it sweeter.
Swap vegetable oil for sesame oil in the frying step for a richer flavor, but watch the heat as sesame oil burns faster.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy to the pan after frying the tofu for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover Korean Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the sauce’s texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the tofu may become soggy.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a serving of plain white rice as the bottom layer, fluffy and soft in texture. On top, there is a second layer of small, cubed tofu coated in a thick, shiny orange glaze, glistening under the light. The tofu is garnished with scattered white sesame seeds and small pieces of green sliced scallions, adding a pop of color. To the left of the plate, a pair of wooden chopsticks with black tips rest neatly. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, a white bowl filled with sliced green scallions and another small white bowl with sesame seeds are slightly out of focus, along with a red pan containing more glazed tofu cubes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft or silken tofu instead of extra-firm?

Extra-firm tofu works best for frying as it holds its shape and crisps up nicely. Soft or silken tofu is too delicate and likely to fall apart during cooking.

Is gochujang spicy?

Yes, gochujang has a moderate heat level with a slightly sweet and fermented flavor. You can adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance or use a milder chili paste as a substitute.