Crispy Baked Korean-Style Tofu with Gochujang Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Firm tofu baked until golden and crispy, then coated in a spicy-sweet Korean gochujang glaze, served with steamed rice and scallions. This korean-inspired vegan ready in about 45 minutes blends cornstarch, sesame oil, gochujang (Korean chili paste) into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 3 Korean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss 14 oz pressed firm tofu cubes with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tbsp sesame oil. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tofu is golden and crispy on all sides.
  3. Step 3: While tofu bakes, whisk together 2 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 minced garlic clove in a small bowl until smooth.
  4. Step 4: When tofu is done, transfer to a large bowl and toss with the gochujang sauce until each piece is coated.
  5. Step 5: Plate the tofu over 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, garnish with 2 thinly sliced scallions and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Crispy Baked Korean-Style Tofu with Gochujang Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Crispy Baked Korean-Style Tofu with Gochujang Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crispy Baked Korean-Style Tofu with Gochujang Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crispy Baked Korean-Style Tofu with Gochujang Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Crispy Baked Korean-Style Tofu with Gochujang Sauce vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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