Spicy Korean-Inspired Beef and Tofu Stew

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A robust stew combining tender beef, silky tofu, and a spicy gochujang broth that warms the soul with every spoonful. This korean-inspired korean (high protein) ready in about 70 minutes pairs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes, block, cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu, gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 5, 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.

★ 4.5 (11 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 55 min Serves 5 Korean cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb beef chuck cubes and brown on all sides for 6-8 minutes until caramelized.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 medium sliced yellow onion, 5 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for 4 minutes until onions soften and aroma intensifies.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 3 tbsp gochujang, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp sugar, cooking for 2 minutes to coat beef and vegetables evenly.
  4. Step 4: Pour 4 cups beef broth into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes until beef is tender.
  5. Step 5: Gently fold in 14 oz firm tofu cubes and 2 cups fresh spinach leaves. Simmer for 5 minutes until spinach wilts and tofu is heated through. Season with 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  6. Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with 3 chopped green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for nutty finish.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Korean-Inspired Beef and Tofu Stew take to make?

Total time is about 70 minutes (15 min prep + 55 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Spicy Korean-Inspired Beef and Tofu Stew?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep sesame oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Korean-Inspired Beef and Tofu Stew?

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 Spicy Korean-Inspired Beef and Tofu Stew for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 5 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 5). 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 Spicy Korean-Inspired Beef and Tofu Stew high protein?

Yes — this recipe is tagged high protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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