Pan-Seared Tofu with Spicy Soy-Garlic Glaze

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-26 · Updated 2026-04-26

Firm tofu pan-seared to golden perfection and coated in a bold, spicy soy-garlic glaze, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for a satisfying vegetarian Korean dish. This Korean recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 25 minutes, pairs soy sauce, gochujang, minced garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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 firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 stalks scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
2. Step 2: Carefully add 14 oz firm tofu slices (pressed and 1/2-inch thick) and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy on edges; transfer to a plate.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp gochujang, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp sesame oil until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the spicy soy-garlic glaze into the skillet and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes fragrant.
5. Step 5: Return the tofu slices to the skillet and spoon the glaze over them, coating each piece thoroughly; cook for another minute to absorb flavors.
6. Step 6: Transfer tofu to a serving dish and garnish with 2 thinly sliced scallions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds.
7. Step 7: Serve warm with steamed rice or as a vegetarian main.