Tofu Gochujang Stir-fry
Tofu Gochujang Stir-fry
Tofu Gochujang Stir-fry: A Healthy, Low-Sodium Vegetarian Side Dish
This is a low-sodium stir-fried tofu and gochujang dish, made with soft tofu instead of beef. It’s a vegetarian-friendly, flavorful condiment perfect for side dishes, bibimbap, or rice bowls.
Main Ingredients- Firm Tofu: 340 grams (firm pressing or stewing tofu recommended)
- Perilla Oil (Deulgireum): a drizzle
- Sesame Oil: a drizzle
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: a pinch
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, combine all the ingredients for the gochujang sauce (gochujang, gochugaru, syrup/honey, plum extract, broth/water, cooking wine, minced garlic, ginger syrup) in a small bowl and mix thoroughly until smooth. This ensures the seasoning is evenly distributed, leading to a more delicious result.
Step 2
Heat a pan over medium-low heat. Add the prepared sauce and stir constantly to prevent burning as it simmers. Once the sauce begins to bubble, turn off the heat for 1-2 minutes to let it cool slightly. Be careful not to cook over high heat, as it can burn easily.
Step 3
Thoroughly pat the tofu dry with paper towels, then cut it into approximately 1.5-2cm cubes or mash it. If using very moist tofu, you may need to extend the cooking time. Place the mashed or cubed tofu in the pan with the slightly cooled sauce. Stir-fry over medium-low heat. Cook until the moisture from the tofu evaporates, the tofu becomes lightly browned, and the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Mashing the tofu before stir-frying allows it to absorb the sauce better and results in a softer texture.
Step 4
Once most of the moisture has evaporated and the sauce has thickened, turn the heat back on to medium-low. Add the stir-fried tofu and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to ensure the tofu is well coated with the sauce. When it reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Let it cool before transferring to an airtight container and refrigerating. Stored this way, it can be enjoyed for about a week.
Step 5
When serving, drizzle a little perilla oil and sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added nutty aroma. It’s best to add these finishing touches just before serving.
Step 6
Serve this delicious tofu gochujang stir-fry over warm rice for a satisfying meal. It’s flavorful enough to make a simple bowl of rice truly enjoyable!
Step 7
Use it as a topping for bibimbap (Korean mixed rice) or rice bowls. It elevates simple dishes into something special without needing many extra ingredients.
Step 8
When preparing bibimbap, mix this tofu gochujang with rice, vegetables, and sesame oil for a spicy, sweet, and healthy condiment.
