Spicy Braised Tofu (using Frozen Tofu)
Spicy Braised Tofu (using Frozen Tofu)
Creative Use for Frozen Tofu: Making Deliciously Spicy Braised Tofu
This recipe features tofu, a protein-rich ingredient excellent for dieting. Tofu provides a sense of fullness, making it a staple for a sustainable diet. Instead of eating it plain, we’ve transformed it into a flavorful, spicy braised dish! Tofu can be challenging to store for long periods, especially in warmer months, so freezing it is a great option. Frozen tofu is even richer in protein than fresh tofu. Enjoy this hearty and delicious way to incorporate more protein into your meals.
Main Ingredients- 1 block Tofu (frozen and thawed)
- 1/2 Onion
- 2 Cheongyang Peppers (Korean chili peppers)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
[Prepare Vegetables] Finely chop the Cheongyang peppers. Slice the onion into thin strips. Feel free to add other leftover vegetables from your refrigerator, such as carrots, green onions, or zucchini, to enhance the flavor and texture. 
Step 2
[Thaw Frozen Tofu] It’s crucial to fully thaw the frozen tofu before cooking. Place the frozen tofu block directly into boiling water and simmer for about 20 minutes until thawed. Alternatively, you can remove it from the freezer 1-2 hours before cooking to let it thaw at room temperature. To freeze tofu, simply place the unopened package in the freezer without any special preparation. 
Step 3
[Slice and Drain Tofu] Cut the thawed tofu into bite-sized pieces, about 2cm thick. Gently press the surface of the tofu slices with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps the tofu absorb the sauce better and prevents it from breaking apart during cooking, as it holds more water than fresh tofu. 
Step 4
[Make the Braising Sauce] In a bowl, combine 3 Tbsp water, 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, and 3 Tbsp soy sauce. Mix well to create the braising sauce. Preparing the sauce separately ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed into the tofu for a more delicious result. (You can add a little sugar or corn syrup for sweetness, if desired.) 
Step 5
[Sear Tofu and Simmer] Heat a non-stick pan. Add the tofu slices and sear them until golden brown on both sides. For a lighter, diet-friendly version, cook without oil. Once the tofu is lightly browned, pour the prepared braising sauce over it. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low heat and simmer until the sauce thickens and reduces to your desired consistency. Gently flip the tofu occasionally to ensure even coating and prevent sticking. 
