Tofu is a big part of Korean cooking. We use it in soups, stews, and stir-fries. It’s super versatile and really tasty. This Spicy Korean Tofu Bites is great because it combines tofu with a spicy sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for when you want something quick and delicious.
Making these Spicy Korean Tofu Bites is easy. First, you cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and coat them in a mixture of cornstarch and a little salt. Then, you fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown. The sauce is a mix of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and a bit of sugar. It’s sweet, spicy, and savory all at once.
After frying the tofu, you toss it in the sauce until every piece is well-coated. The result is a snack that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of bold flavors.
I love serving these Spicy Korean Tofu Bites as an appetizer or even as a main dish with some rice and veggies on the side. They’re great for parties or just a fun weeknight dinner.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think. I’m sure you’ll find it as delicious as I do!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes – Spicy Korean Tofu Bites
- Marinating Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of gochujang for 15 minutes before frying. This will infuse the tofu with a deeper taste.
- Extra Crispiness: To achieve extra crispy tofu, press the tofu with a tofu press or a heavy object for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water before cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the tofu. Test by dropping a small piece of tofu into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Even Cooking: Fry the tofu cubes in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to the pan for a more substantial and colorful dish.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the tofu bites with a side of steamed rice, kimchi, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an authentic Korean meal.
- Adjusting Spiciness: Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spiciness level according to your preference.
Spicy Korean Tofu Bites
4
servings5
minutes15
minutes134
kcal20
minutesGet ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Spicy Korean Tofu Bites! This dish features crispy tofu cubes coated in a sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce that will leave you craving more. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine, it’s a must-try for any food lover!
Ingredients
0.6 pounds firm or extra-firm tofu cubed
Rice bran oil
3 tablespoons tomato ketchup
1 to 1.5 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1/2 tablespoon regular soy sauce
1/2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
Toasted sesame seeds
Finely chopped green onions
- Alternative Ingredients:
Tofu: Use tempeh or seitan for a different texture.
Rice Bran Oil: Substitute with canola oil or vegetable oil.
Honey: Replace with agave syrup or brown sugar for a vegan option.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato ketchup, gochujang, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Stir until well blended and set aside.
- Pan Fry the Tofu – Pat the cubed tofu dry using kitchen paper towels. For extra crispiness, gently press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Heat rice bran oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until each side is golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Sauce the Tofu – Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside. Pour the prepared spicy ketchup sauce into the same pan and stir over medium-low heat for about 5-10 seconds until it starts to bubble.
- Combine and Serve – Return the fried tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat each piece with the sauce. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm or cold with steamed rice.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Nonstick Pan
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 134kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 200IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ – Spicy Korean Tofu Bites
Can I use silken tofu instead of firm tofu?
Silken tofu is not recommended for this recipe as it is too soft and will not hold up well during frying. Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for achieving the desired crispy texture.
What can I use as a substitute for gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can use a mixture of sriracha and a bit of miso paste as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, like gochujang, are also gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the tofu instead. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the cubed tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
What other sauces can I use with the tofu bites?
You can try other sauces like sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a simple soy sauce and sesame oil mixture for different flavor profiles.
