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Authentic Korean Braised Tofu (Dubu Jorim)

Close-up of crispy, glazed korean braised tofu cubes topped with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
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Make easy Dubu Jorim, a savory and slightly spicy Korean braised tofu side dish. This recipe uses firm tofu and simple Korean pantry staples for quick banchan recipes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
  • 1 tablespoon rice syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup
  • 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Press the extra-firm tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water. Cut the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch thick slices or cubes.
  2. Heat the neutral cooking oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Gently place the tofu pieces in the skillet in a single layer.
  3. Pan-fry the tofu for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the exterior is golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove the tofu and set it aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the water or broth, soy sauce, gochugaru, rice syrup, sesame oil, and sugar. This creates your savory sticky tofu sauce.
  6. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
  7. Carefully return the browned tofu to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the tofu pieces.
  8. Reduce the heat to low and let the tofu simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu well.
  9. Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onion and toasted sesame seeds before serving immediately with rice.

Notes

  • Use extra-firm tofu for the best texture; it holds its shape during braising.
  • For a deeper flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of thinly sliced onion or mushrooms when sautéing the garlic.
  • This dish is excellent made ahead; store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
  • If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of gochugaru.

Nutrition

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