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Authentic Korean Braised Tofu (Dubu Jorim)

Four thick slices of perfectly pan-fried Korean braised tofu coated in a dark, glossy sauce and topped with green onions and sesame seeds.
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Make this classic Korean side dish, Dubu Jorim, using firm tofu braised in a savory, slightly spicy soy-based sauce. This easy Korean tofu recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14-16 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
  • 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for second addition)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth and place a heavy object on top. Cut the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch thick slices.
  2. Heat the neutral oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Gently place the tofu slices in the skillet, ensuring they do not overlap.
  3. Pan-fry the tofu for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the water or broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, gochugaru, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and ginger to create the best Dubu Jorim sauce.
  5. Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
  6. Carefully return the pan-fried tofu slices to the skillet, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
  7. Simmer the tofu for 5 to 7 minutes, gently spooning the sauce over the tofu occasionally. The goal is to reduce the liquid until it thickens slightly and coats the tofu well.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce over the tofu for an extra layer of flavor.
  9. Transfer the Korean braised tofu to a serving plate. Garnish with sliced green onion and toasted sesame seeds before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For a less spicy flavor, reduce the gochugaru to 1/2 tablespoon.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for a few extra minutes, or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
  • Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for this braising technique as it holds its shape better than silken tofu.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/korean-braised-tofu-recipe-easy-dubu-jorim/