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 or main dish with rice and made of minimal ingredients.
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Korean Braised Tofu (or “Dubu Jorim” in Korean translation) is a popular Korean side dish or “banchan”. It’s packed with scrumptious flavors satisfying all your tastebuds – from sweet, savory, spicy and garlicky!
This tofu dish is usually served with steamed rice with other banchans in many Korean restaurants and Korean households. I share a list of pairing suggestions below.
If you find it difficult to enjoy tofu, look no further! This is by far the most flavorful way to enjoy this meatless protein. It’s my favorite way and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Why you’ll love this tofu recipe:
- one of the tastiest ways to enjoy tofu!
- quick and easy to prepare in little time.
- uses minimal ingredients compared to other Asian recipes.
- made in one-pan.
- a convenient side dish that can be made in advance for meal prep on busy days.
- can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preference.
- you can adjust the spice level to your tolerance.
- it’s vegan!
Ingredients & Substitutes
Please scroll down to below recipe card for exact measurements.
- Firm or Extra-Firm Block Tofu: or substitute with medium-firm tofu. Avoid using soft tofu as it will be difficult to handle.
- Neutral Cooking Oil: like avocado oil, sunflower oil, grapeseed oil, peanut oil, vegetable oil or canola oil with a high smoke point. Avoid olive oil or coconut oil.
- Salt: to season and drain the tofu of excess moisture.
- Green Onion: for garnishing (optional).
Sauce
- Garlic Cloves
- Green Onions: or substitute with ¼ cup finely diced onions.
- Regular Soy Sauce: or substitute with low sodium soy sauce or light soy sauce. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with tamari sauce, coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce.
- White Granulated Sugar: or substitute with cane sugar, or honey.
- Sesame Oil: if you’re allergic to sesame oil, please omit.
- Gochugaru: these are Korean red chili flakes available at the Korean grocery store. Or substitute with gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) or red chili flakes.
- Rice Vinegar: or substitute with apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or mirin.
- Sesame Seeds: if you’re allergic to sesame seeds, omit altogether.
- Water: cold or room temperature.
Note: Most Asian grocery stores will carry most of the Asian specific ingredients or check online stores, like Amazon.