Easy 20-min. Korean Braised Tofu (Dubu Jorim)
Pan-fried tofu braised in a spicy, sweet, savory sauce with garlic and scallions. This easy 20-minute Korean braised tofu is the most delicious way to enjoy tofu! A great side dish with rice and made of minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (block) tofu firm / extra-firm / medium-firm
- 1.5 tbsp vegetable oil or any neutral oil
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 green onion finely chopped (optional garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 green onions green onions finely chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce regular or light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp white granulated sugar or cane sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp gochugaru or Gochujang
- 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar apple cider vinegar / white vinegar / mirin
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1/3 cup water cold or room temperature
Instructions
- Drain the block tofu of its packaged liquids. Then slice the block tofu into 2.5-inch-long rectangles that are 1/3-inch thick.
- On a large baking sheet or plate lined with paper towel, place tofu slices flat in a single layer. Pat dry tofu with more paper towel.
- Then evenly sprinkle salt on top of the tofu. Set aside for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine sauce ingredients as listed above.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan on medium heat. Pan fry tofu pieces on both sides until golden, about 2-4 minutes per side.
- Then pour the sauce over the tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes or until sauce has reduced. Garnish with more green onions and serve with steamed rice.
Notes
Drain as much liquid from the tofu package as possible. Let the tofu sit in the salt for at least 10 minutes for better crispiness. Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and cleanup.