Pan-Fried Gochujang Tofu with Sesame and Scallions

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

Crisp pan-fried tofu glazed with a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce, finished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh scallions for a Korean-inspired vegan delight. This korean-inspired vegan (gluten free option, vegan) ready in about 25 minutes pairs vegetable oil, gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 250 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 250 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press a 14 oz block of firm tofu for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp on all sides.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp water, and 2 minced garlic cloves until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Pour the gochujang sauce over the tofu in the skillet, reduce heat to medium, and toss gently to coat the tofu. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, sprinkle with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced scallions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Fried Gochujang Tofu with Sesame and Scallions 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 Pan-Fried Gochujang Tofu with Sesame and Scallions?

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 oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Fried Gochujang Tofu with Sesame and Scallions?

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 Pan-Fried Gochujang Tofu with Sesame and Scallions 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 Pan-Fried Gochujang Tofu with Sesame and Scallions gluten free option?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free option, 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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