Dubu Jorim (Spicy Korean Braised Tofu) Recipe
Today we are making a Dubu Jorim (Spicy Korean Braised Tofu) Recipe! The name Dubu Jorim comes from the Korean language, which means Braised Tofu. This dish is a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet, with a delicious sauce over top of sliced tofu. Whether you’re vegan or not, Dubu Jorim is already plant-based since it starts with tofu as the main ingredient, and doesn’t use dairy in the sauce. (If you haven’t worked with tofu before, it’s super simple and you’ll find all the instructions in the recipe card). This was one of the first vegan dishes I tried when I wanted to try (vegan) Korean food at home, and I keep coming back to it because it’s so easy to prepare!
Dubu Jorim has a rich history in Korean cuisine. Traditionally, it has been a staple in Korean households, especially loved for its simplicity and robust flavors. The dish typically features tofu braised in a spicy and savory sauce made from gochugaru (Korean red chili pepper flakes), soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Dubu Jorim can be served as a flavorful side dish, or also as a main dish with a bed of hot rice.
The origins of Dubu Jorim go back to the broader Korean tradition of jangajji (pickling and braising vegetables and proteins). Over the years, this tofu dish has evolved, with many regional variations and family recipes passed down through generations. Let’s get onto the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Dubu Jorim (Spicy Korean Braised Tofu) Recipe
Texture & Flavor: This spicy Korean tofu offers a contrast between the crispy, pan-fried tofu exterior and the flavorful interior, creating a satisfying texture with every bite. The combination of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), soy sauce, garlic and sesame oil infuses the tofu with a unique blend of spicy, umami, and nutty flavors that are distinctively Korean (and addictive)!
Already Vegan: Dubu Jorim is naturally vegan, as it starts with tofu as a base and incorporates sauces and spices that don’t contain animal products. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone following a plant-based diet without needing any modifications. Plus, tofu is a great source of protein, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Substitutions
Extra Firm Tofu: Opt for extra firm tofu for the best results. It has the right texture and consistency for crisping up when pan-frying. Before using it, we use a kitchen towel or paper towel to soak up some of the excess liquid.
GMO soy crops are grown using artificial fertilizers and pesticides, so I avoid them if I can. However, I usually find the main tofu brands available in my local supermarket are already non-GMO, such as Soyganic and Sunrise!
Oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and is great for cooking without lending its own strong taste like extra-virgin olive oil can. Vegetable oil can work as well.
Coconut Sugar: If you’re looking to avoid nuts completely, even coconut sugar, substitute with white or brown sugar instead (the recipe will not be refined sugar-free though).
Tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free substitue for soy sauce, and also lighter on the sodium. You can replace with soy sauce, but it will be saltier than tamari. I recommend to start out by using less than the amount of tamari called for. Using soy sauce also won’t keep this recipe gluten-free.
Green Onion: These also go by the name of scallions. Do not substitute with another type of onion. This is specific to the flavor of Dubu Jorim!
Gochugaru: These are Korean red chili flakes, which can be found in Asian markets or online. Do not substitute with gochujang paste, which is similar but not the same texture or flavor.
Dubu Jorim (Spicy Korean Braised Tofu) Recipe Notes
- Customize your recipe by adding more gochugaru for spiciness, julienned carrots or chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro, or thin nori strips. Although these are not traditional toppings, they will add extra flavor!
- Serve with rice or your choice of grain, and a side of cooked vegetables (like bok choy, or your choice of veggie).
More Tofu Recipes You’ll Love
If you make this Spicy Korean Braised Tofu, then leave a comment and star rating! Don’t forget to tag your photos @peanut_palate on Instagram. Enjoy!
Dubu Jorim (Spicy Korean Braised Tofu) Recipe
Equipment
- Kitchen Towel or Paper Towels
- Small Bowl
- Small Whisk
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
For the Tofu
- 1 block extra-firm tofu
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
For the Sauce
- 1 tbsp gochugaru korean red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar
- 2 tbsp tamari
- 2 tbsp fresh garlic finely grated
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp green onions
- 2 tsp white sesame seeds
Instructions
- Unwrap the tofu block and place it in the kitchen towel or paper towels. Lightly press down on it to release some of the excess water, being careful not to crumble it.
- Whisk together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Place a skillet over medium heat.
- Slice tofu into rectangular blocks, each about half-inch thick.
- When the skillet is hot, add in the 2 tbsp of oil. Wear oven mitts and stand as far as possible from the oil, or use a lid to cover part of it, as it will splatter!
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add in the tofu slices, evenly placing them all in the skillet.
- Let the tofu pan-fry for about 4 minutes per side, flipping each slide over once golden brown. Once this is done, move onto the next step.
- Pour the sauce over top of the crispy tofu, in the skillet.
- Simmer for two more minutes on medium-low, stirring the tofu around, then turn off the heat.
- Serve the tofu over white rice or your choice of grain. Enjoy!
Notes
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Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
