Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu with Sesame-Garlic Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-24 · Updated 2026-05-24

Golden pan-seared tofu cubes tossed in a vibrant, spicy garlic sauce with sesame oil and scallions, perfect for a plant-based Korean-inspired meal. This Korean-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs extra-firm tofu, soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste) 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz block extra-firm tofu
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 2 sliced green onions
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tsp rice vinegar

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Press 14 oz extra-firm tofu block to remove excess water, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until all sides are golden brown and crisp.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp gochujang, 2 tsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp honey, and 1 tsp rice vinegar.
4. Step 4: Pour the sauce over the tofu in the skillet and toss gently to coat, cooking for another 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and glazes the tofu.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 sliced green onions before serving.