Hidden Gem Spicy Korean Tofu Stew with Silken Tofu and Zucchini

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

A warming Korean stew combining silky tofu, zucchini, and a spicy gochujang broth that conceals layers of flavor in every spoonful. This korean-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes pairs silken tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes, medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons, vegetable broth for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 180 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Korean cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Step 2: Stir in 2 tbsp gochujang and 1 tsp sugar, cooking for 30 seconds to release the chili’s aroma.
  3. Step 3: Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth and 1 tbsp soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 medium sliced zucchini and simmer for 5 minutes until just tender.
  5. Step 5: Gently slide 14 oz silken tofu cubes into the stew and simmer for an additional 3 minutes to warm the tofu without breaking it.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds before serving hot.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Hidden Gem Spicy Korean Tofu Stew with Silken Tofu and Zucchini take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Hidden Gem Spicy Korean Tofu Stew with Silken Tofu and Zucchini?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep vegetable broth from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Hidden Gem Spicy Korean Tofu Stew with Silken Tofu and Zucchini?

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 Hidden Gem Spicy Korean Tofu Stew with Silken Tofu and Zucchini 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 Hidden Gem Spicy Korean Tofu Stew with Silken Tofu and Zucchini 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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