Vegetarian Kimchi Tofu Skewers with Gochujang Dipping Sauce
Firm tofu cubes infused with kimchi and grilled until golden, served with a smoky gochujang dipping sauce for a satisfying plant-based dinner. This korean-inspired grilling (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes blends firm tofu, chopped kimchi, soy sauce 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 240 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.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu
- 1/2 cup, chopped kimchi
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp gochujang paste
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: Press tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with 1/2 cup chopped kimchi, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar in a bowl until evenly coated. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Whisk together 2 tbsp gochujang paste, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp sesame seeds in a small bowl for the dipping sauce. Set aside.
- Step 3: Thread tofu cubes onto skewers and grill over medium heat (350°F) for 4-5 minutes per side until edges are crisp and golden. Serve immediately with the gochujang dipping sauce on the side.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Vegetarian Kimchi Tofu Skewers with Gochujang Dipping Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (25 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Vegetarian Kimchi Tofu Skewers with Gochujang Dipping 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 Vegetarian Kimchi Tofu Skewers with Gochujang Dipping 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 Vegetarian Kimchi Tofu Skewers with Gochujang Dipping 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 Vegetarian Kimchi Tofu Skewers with Gochujang Dipping 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
- ★★★★★
Added some red pepper flakes for heat — highly recommend.
- ★★★★★
Doubled the garlic (as one does) and it was amazing.
- ★★★★☆
Almost perfect — just needed a squeeze of lemon at the end.