Spicy Korean Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce

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

A bold and spicy tofu stir fry using half the usual soy sauce and a flavorful homemade gochujang glaze. This korean-inspired stir fry (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends sesame oil, medium, julienned carrot, stalks, sliced scallions 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 350 calories and feeds 2, 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 2 Korean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 7 oz pressed tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 medium sliced green bell pepper, and 1/2 medium julienned carrot. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp and garlic is fragrant.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp water until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the gochujang sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Toss everything together and cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat the tofu and veggies.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced scallions and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds before serving with steamed rice or noodles.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Korean Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang 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 Spicy Korean Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang 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 Spicy Korean 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 Tofu Stir Fry with Gochujang Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 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.

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