Korean Braised Tofu

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Dubu jorim (두부조림)

Prep Time20

Cook Time5

Total Time25

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Korean

Keyword: Dubu Jorim

Servings:

Calories: 180kcal

Author: David

Cost: 3

Ingredients

For the Tofu:

1 block firm tofu 14-16 oz
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 green onion(s) chopped
1 green chili sliced (optional)

For the Sauce:

4 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp garlic minced
1 tsp korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp mirin
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp sesame seeds
¼ tbsp black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu:

Drain 2 blocks of firm tofu and pat completely dry with paper towels
Cut each block into rectangles about ½-inch thick
Place rectangles between fresh paper towels and press gently to remove excess moisture
Let sit for 10 minutes under gentle pressure
This step is crucial for helping the tofu absorb the braising sauce later

Initial Frying Process:

Heat a large, non-stick pan over medium-high heat
Add 2 tbsp vegetable oil and spread evenly
Once oil is hot (test with a drop of water - it should sizzle)
Carefully place tofu pieces in a single layer
Don't overcrowd - cook in batches if needed
Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown
Handle pieces gently when flipping to prevent breaking
Remove and place on paper towels

Prepare Braising Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, garlic, brown sugar, korean red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.
Stir until sugar completely dissolves
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed
The sauce should be balanced between salty, sweet, and spicy

Braising Process:

Return the pan to medium heat
Carefully arrange fried tofu pieces back in the pan
Pour the sauce evenly over the tofu
Let it come to a gentle simmer
Spoon the sauce over the tofu pieces periodically
Cook until sauce reduces and becomes glazy
Flip pieces once during braising
The tofu should absorb the sauce while maintaining its crispy exterior

Final Seasoning:

Once sauce has reduced by about 75%
Add sliced green onions
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds
Give the pan a gentle shake to distribute
Let cook for 1 more minute
The sauce should now be thick and coating the tofu

Resting and Serving:

Remove from heat
Let rest for 5 minutes
During this time, the tofu will continue to absorb flavors
Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds if desired
Sauce will continue to thicken as it cools

Notes

Recipe Tips

Use extra-firm tofu
Drain thoroughly
Don't move tofu while frying
Keep sauce simmering gently
Adjust spice level
Watch liquid reduction

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

Steamed rice
Other banchan
Korean soups
In lunch boxes
As protein main
With fresh kimchi

Variations

Extra spicy version
Double-braised style
Add mushrooms
Include onions
Different sauce combinations
Crispy version

Storage

Keeps 4-5 days refrigerated
Store in sauce
Reheat gently
Can be served cold
Don't freeze

The key to perfect dubu jorim is patience during each step and careful attention to the sauce reduction. The goal is to have tofu that's crispy on the outside, tender inside, and thoroughly flavored with the reduced sauce.

Nutrition