Dinner

Korean Gochujang Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe

Name: Korean Gochujang Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 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; 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)

ByElena Hart October 5, 2026October 5, 2026

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Introduction

Korean Tofu is a flavorful and spicy dish that highlights the bold taste of gochujang, a traditional Korean chili paste. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these tofu cubes are coated in a rich, savory sauce perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

A white plate holds a layer of fluffy white rice as the base, topped with glossy orange cubes of tofu coated in a shiny sauce. The tofu pieces are sprinkled with white sesame seeds and small green scallion slices are scattered on top and around for extra color. To the left side of the plate, wooden chopsticks rest against the rice and tofu. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. 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 well combined.
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the pressed and cubed tofu and fry until each side is golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 3: Pour the prepared sauce over the fried tofu in the pan. Stir gently to coat all tofu pieces evenly. Continue cooking for 5 to 8 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and adhere to the tofu.
Step 4: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture before frying.

Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or cashews for a crunchy contrast.
Serve over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s texture and tofu’s crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a two-layer dish with a base of fluffy white rice spread evenly in a circular shape. On top, there is a mound of sticky glazed tofu cubes, bright orange in color with a shiny texture. The tofu is sprinkled with white sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish, adding green specks throughout. To the left side of the plate, a pair of wooden chopsticks with black tips rests partly on the plate and marble surface. The background shows a white marbled texture with small white bowls filled with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and a red pan containing more glazed tofu in the upper right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

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

Soft tofu is not recommended for frying as it tends to break apart easily. Extra-firm tofu holds its shape better and crisps up nicely, making it ideal for this recipe.