Pan-Fried Korean-Style Tofu with Spicy Gochujang Glaze

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-14 · Updated 2026-05-14

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are developed and reviewed.

Firm tofu pan-fried until golden and crispy, then coated with a bold and spicy Korean gochujang glaze for a satisfying vegetarian main. This Korean-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 25 minutes, pairs firm tofu block, canola oil, garlic clove for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 260 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 260 cal/serving

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Ingredients

14 oz, drained and pressed firm tofu block
3 tbsp canola oil
2, minced garlic clove
2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp sesame seeds
2, thinly sliced green onions

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Instructions

Step 1: Slice 14 ounces of firm tofu into 1/2-inch thick slabs and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Heat 3 tablespoons canola oil in a ceramic nonstick frying pan over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the tofu slabs in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, then transfer to a plate.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons gochujang, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon honey until smooth.
Step 5: Pour the gochujang glaze into the same pan and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
Step 6: Return the tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat each piece evenly with the spicy glaze.
Step 7: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions before serving.