Spicy Korean-Style Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crisp pan-fried tofu cubes tossed in a vibrant and spicy gochujang sauce with fresh vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian stir fry. This korean-inspired st. patrick’s day (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes pairs drained and pressed extra firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 310 calories and feeds 4, 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.

★ 4.3 (15 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Korean cuisine 310 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI →

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cut 14 oz extra firm tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss the tofu cubes gently with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and pan-fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 medium julienned red bell pepper, 1 medium sliced zucchini, and 1 large julienned carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp gochujang, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp sesame oil.
  5. Step 5: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and pour the gochujang sauce over. Toss carefully to coat everything evenly and cook for 2 additional minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle 3 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Korean-Style Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 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-Style Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce?

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 cornstarch from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Korean-Style Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang 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 Spicy Korean-Style Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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-Style Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce vegetarian?

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

What others are saying

Related recipes