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Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu

Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu for a Flavor Explosion

This Crispy Gochujang Korean Tofu recipe delivers a delightful flavor explosion with its bold sauce and crispy texture.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 14 oz Firm/Extra-Firm Tofu Substitution: Medium tofu can be used, but be gentle to avoid breaking.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (or Neutral Oil) Substitution: Use any mild-flavored oil, such as canola or grapeseed.
  • 1/3 cup Cornstarch (or Potato Starch) Tip: Potato starch offers an even crunchier finish if you're aiming for extra crispy gochujang tofu.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
For the Gochujang Sauce
  • 3 tbsp Gochujang Note: No substitutes; available in Asian markets or the international aisle.
  • 2 tbsp Ketchup Tip: Substitute with tomato paste while adding a pinch of sugar for balance.
  • 1 tbsp Mirin Substitution: An extra ½ tablespoon of rice vinegar can work if mirin isn't on hand.
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce Tip: Opt for low sodium to control the saltiness easily.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh minced garlic for the best results.
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil
  • 1/2 cup Water Adjusts the sauce’s consistency for perfect coating.
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Scallions
  • 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds

Equipment

  • oven
  • Air fryer
  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Tofu: Start by draining the firm tofu and pressing it gently to remove excess moisture. Use a tofu press or place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes or tear it into pieces for a rustic look.
  2. Season Tofu: In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed tofu with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
  3. Cook Tofu (Oven): Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the seasoned tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, then toss and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Cook Tofu (Air Fryer): Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Add the seasoned tofu to the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes.
  5. Make Gochujang Sauce: In a saucepan, combine gochujang, ketchup, mirin, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Heat until bubbling, then reduce and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Combine: Toss the crispy tofu in the gochujang sauce until well-coated. Serve warm over rice or alongside steamed vegetables, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 14gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Press the tofu properly for at least 15 minutes to ensure crispiness. Adjust spice levels to taste and use the air fryer for the best texture when reheating leftovers.

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