Spicy Braised Tofu

Name: Spicy Braised Tofu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Yield: 4 to 5 servings
Cuisine: Korean Menu
Ingredients: Firm Tofu — 450 g; Vegetable Oil — 3 tbsp; Onion — 120 g; Garlic — 1 clove; Spring Onions — 2 stalks; Water — 120 ml; Soy Sauce — 1 tbsp; Salt — 1 tsp; Sugar — 1 tsp; Red Pepper Flakes — 1 tbsp; Sesame Oil — 1 tsp; Toasted Sesame Seeds — To taste

This classic Korean spicy braised tofu, known as Dubu Jorim, features golden-pan-fried tofu pieces simmered in a rich, savoury, and slightly spicy sauce. Infused with aromatic garlic, onions, and spring onions, this dish offers a wonderful textural contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, pillowy centre. It is an incredibly easy, cost-effective, and deeply comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with warm rice.

Cuisines

Cooking Instructions

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes

Servings: 4 to 5

Notes:

Firm or medium-firm tofu works best for this recipe; ensure you pat the pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels before pan-frying to help achieve a beautifully golden, crispy crust.

The sauce is highly customisable; if you prefer a non-spicy version, simply omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount to suit your personal preference.

Pan-frying the tofu over high heat is essential for developing a crunchy exterior, while the subsequent braising step infuses the pieces with the savoury sauce.

When stir-frying the aromatics (onions, garlic, and spring onions), ensure they are cooked until fragrant and just slightly crunchy before adding the braising sauce to build the base flavour.

This dish is a classic lunchbox staple, remaining delicious even at room temperature, making it a perfect, reliable side dish for packed meals.

Prepare Tofu
Drain the tofu, pat dry with paper towels, and slice into 2 cm thick bite-sized pieces.

Pan Fry
Heat oil in a pan over high heat, add the tofu pieces in a single layer, and fry until both sides are golden brown and crispy, then remove and set aside.

Create Aromatics and Sauce
Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and the white parts of the spring onions in a pan until fragrant, then pour in the water, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes.

Braise
Add the fried tofu pieces into the simmering sauce, gently tossing to coat evenly, and cook until the sauce reduces into a thick, flavourful glaze.

Finish
Turn off the heat, stir in a teaspoon of sesame oil, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and the remaining chopped green parts of the spring onions before serving.