Crispy Pan-Seared Tofu with Spicy Korean Gochujang Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-02 · Updated 2026-07-02

Firm tofu pan-seared until golden and crispy, served with a vibrant gochujang sauce and garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for a Korean-inspired vegetarian dish. This Korean-inspired vegan recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 40 minutes, pairs extra-firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz block, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch slices extra-firm tofu
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 2 thinly sliced scallions
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Press a 14 oz block of extra-firm tofu for at least 20 minutes, then slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Toss the tofu slices gently with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu slices and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp water, and 1 minced garlic clove until smooth.
4. Step 4: Return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the sauce mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
5. Step 5: Return the tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat with the sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced scallions and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.