Gochujang Tofu Recipe
A flavorful and crispy Gochujang Tofu recipe that combines spicy Korean chili paste with perfectly baked tofu nuggets, coated in a tangy and sweet sauce. This dish is easy to prepare, vegan-friendly, and perfect as a snack or main course.
- Author: mia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3-4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegan
Tofu Preparation
- 1 pack extra-firm tofu (12-14oz)
- 2 tbsp avocado oil (can substitute vegetable oil)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Sauce
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (can substitute tamari)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
Optional Garnish
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Press Tofu: Press as much liquid as possible out of the tofu using a clean kitchen towel, paper towel, or tofu press to help it crisp up during baking.
- Prepare Tofu Nuggets: Rip the tofu into nuggets or cut into cubes, then toss with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and cornstarch to evenly coat.
- Bake Tofu: Spread the coated tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
- Make Gochujang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar until well combined. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Tofu with Sauce: Add the baked tofu and the prepared Gochujang sauce to the pan. Toss gently to coat all tofu pieces evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Optionally garnish with sliced scallions before serving. Enjoy warm as a main dish or snack.
Notes
- Pressing tofu well is essential for achieving crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of Gochujang based on your preferred spice level.
- To make this gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Use honey instead of brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness.
- Serve with steamed rice or in a wrap for a full meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 4 oz tofu)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Gochujang tofu, Korean spicy tofu, crispy tofu, vegan Korean recipe, baked tofu, spicy tofu sauce