Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-07 · Updated 2026-05-07

Firm tofu stir-fried with vibrant vegetables and a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce that delivers authentic Korean flavors in a quick vegan meal. This korean-inspired vegan ready in about 30 minutes pairs firm tofu, sesame oil, red bell pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 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, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 medium, sliced into thin strips red bell pepper
• 1 medium, sliced into half moons zucchini
• 1 large, julienned carrot
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 stalks, chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides; transfer tofu to a plate.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, then sauté 3 minced garlic cloves for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 sliced zucchini, and 1 julienned carrot to the skillet, stir-frying for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp brown sugar until smooth.
5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Toss gently for 2-3 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle 2 chopped green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.