Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish, this sticky gochujang tofu is the perfect choice. It combines the crispy texture of baked tofu with the bold flavors of gochujang sauce, creating a delectable meal that is both healthy and delicious. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be served over rice with fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Tofu:
– 1 block (16 ounces) extra firm tofu, preferably vacuum-packed
– 1 tablespoon avocado oil
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– Black pepper, to taste
Gochujang Sauce:
– 3 tablespoons gochujang sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1–2 tablespoons water, as needed
For Serving:
– Cooked rice
– Cucumber slices or other fresh vegetables
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Green onions, sliced
– Roasted peanuts, chopped
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
To prepare the tofu, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Drain the tofu and gently press it to remove excess moisture. Tear the tofu into bite-sized chunks so it has a textured surface, which helps it absorb flavors. In a bowl, toss the tofu with avocado oil, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sprinkle cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper over the tofu, tossing again to evenly coat.
Next, arrange the coated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, ensuring the pieces are not touching. Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
While the tofu is baking, prepare the gochujang sauce by combining gochujang sauce, soy sauce, peanut butter, sesame oil, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth, and if needed, add water to achieve a pourable consistency.
Once the tofu is finished baking and is crispy, transfer it to a large bowl and pour the prepared gochujang sauce over it. Toss gently to ensure each piece is well coated with the sauce. Return the sauced tofu to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and adhere to the tofu.
To serve, present the sticky gochujang tofu over a bed of cooked rice and garnish with cucumber slices or other fresh vegetables, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and roasted peanuts. Enjoy your delicious meal immediately!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Tofu:
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
– Drain the tofu and gently press it to remove excess moisture.
– Tear the tofu into bite-sized chunks for a more textured surface.
– In a bowl, toss the tofu pieces with avocado oil, ensuring they are well-coated.
– Sprinkle cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper over the tofu, tossing again to evenly coat.
Bake the Tofu:
– Arrange the coated tofu pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, ensuring they are not touching.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Prepare the Gochujang Sauce:
– In a small bowl, combine gochujang sauce, soy sauce, peanut butter, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
– Whisk the ingredients together until smooth.
– If the sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water to achieve a pourable consistency.
Coat the Tofu with Sauce:
– Once the tofu is baked and crispy, transfer it to a large bowl.
– Pour the prepared gochujang sauce over the tofu, tossing gently to ensure each piece is well-coated.
Final Bake:
– Return the sauced tofu to the baking sheet.
– Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly and adhere to the tofu.
Serve:
– Serve the sticky gochujang tofu over cooked rice.
– Garnish with cucumber slices or other fresh vegetables, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and chopped roasted peanuts.
– Enjoy immediately.
Notes
Tofu Preference:
– Use extra firm tofu for the best texture and crispness.
Cornstarch Coating:
– Cornstarch helps achieve a crispy exterior when baking the tofu.
Gochujang Sauce Consistency:
– Adjust the amount of water in the sauce based on your texture preference.
Serving Suggestions:
– Feel free to customize the garnishes with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Storage Tips:
– Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days, though best enjoyed fresh.
Cook techniques
Pressing Tofu
Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, helping it achieve a firmer texture and allowing it to absorb flavors better.
Baking Tofu
Baking tofu at a high temperature creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Ensure the pieces are spread apart on the baking sheet for even cooking.
Coating with Cornstarch
Coating tofu with cornstarch enhances its crispiness by forming a crunchy layer during baking.
Making Gochujang Sauce
Combining gochujang sauce with other ingredients like peanut butter and sesame oil creates a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the tofu well.
Final Baking with Sauce
Returning the sauced tofu to the oven allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to caramelize, adding depth and richness to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of tofu?
For this recipe, extra firm tofu is recommended for the best texture, but you can use firm tofu if that’s what you have on hand.
How can I make the dish spicier?
You can increase the amount of gochujang sauce or add extra chili flakes or hot sauce to the gochujang mixture for more heat.
What can I substitute for peanut butter?
You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, tahini, or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or preference.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the gochujang sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days before use.
What vegetables can I use for serving?
You can use various fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or radishes, depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
This crispy gochujang tofu dish combines the rich flavors of a spicy, savory sauce with perfectly baked tofu, creating a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and healthy. The use of fresh vegetables and herbs enhances the overall presentation and adds a refreshing crunch, making it a great option for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chickpea Bowl
Swap the tofu for roasted chickpeas, seasoned with similar spices, and serve with the same gochujang sauce over a bed of quinoa or couscous.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Add a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas to the gochujang sauce, tossing them together for a vibrant stir-fry served with rice.
Gochujang Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Cube sweet potatoes and toss them in a homemade gochujang sauce, roasting until caramelized and tender. Serve alongside the tofu for a hearty meal.
Thai Lettuce Wraps
Use the gochujang sauce to flavor ground turkey or tempeh, and serve in crisp lettuce cups with cucumbers, cilantro, and crushed peanuts for a fresh twist.
Quinoa Salad with Peanut Dressing
Mix cooked quinoa with diced cucumber, carrots, and a light peanut soy dressing inspired by the gochujang sauce to create a protein-packed salad.
Gochujang Marinade for Grilled Chicken
Use the gochujang sauce as a marinade for chicken, then grill and serve the juicy pieces on a bed of rice with fresh veggies for a robust meal.
