Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Gochujang Sauce

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

Firm tofu pan-seared to golden perfection and stir-fried with crunchy vegetables in a spicy, sweet, and savory gochujang sauce. This korean-inspired vegetarian ready in about 30 minutes blends firm tofu, pressed and cubed, gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce 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 280 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: 15 min Serves 3 Korean cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, then transfer to a plate.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 julienned carrot, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and the tofu back into the skillet. Stir-fry for 3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp gochujang and 1 tbsp soy sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to tofu and vegetables.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 3 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Gochujang Sauce take to make?

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

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry 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 Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry 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 Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry 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.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Gochujang Sauce?

Korean vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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