Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu with Sesame-Garlic Sauce

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

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 (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends block extra-firm tofu, soy sauce, gochujang (Korean chili paste) 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 260 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 260 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

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.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu with Sesame-Garlic 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 with Sesame-Garlic 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 with Sesame-Garlic 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 with Sesame-Garlic 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.

Is Pan-Seared Korean Spicy Tofu with Sesame-Garlic Sauce 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.

Related recipes