Pan fried tofu with spicy sauce (Dububuchim-yangnyeomjang: 두부부침양념장)

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make pan-fried tofu with a spicy seasoning sauce, known in Korean as Dububuchim-yangnyeomjang. This simple yet flavorful dish is a popular side in Korean cuisine and can be prepared in just 10 minutes. Perfect for adding a healthy protein option to your meals, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results.

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1. Select the Tofu:

   • Choose a block of firm or medium-firm organic tofu for the best texture and flavor.

2. Drain and Dry the Tofu:

   • Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any excess water.
   • Wrap the tofu in a cotton cloth or paper towel to absorb moisture.

3. Slice the Tofu:

   • Cut the tofu into 8 equal pieces.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Tofu

1. Heat the Pan:

   • Turn on the heat to medium-high.

2. Add Oil:

   • Pour approximately 3 tablespoons of non-GMO vegetable oil into the pan and swirl to coat.

3. Cook the Tofu:

   • Place the tofu pieces in the hot oil.
   • Cook for about 5 minutes until the bottom is golden and slightly crispy.
   • Flip the tofu and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until both sides are crunchy.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Sauce

1. Gather Ingredients:

   • You will need:
     • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
     • 2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean hot pepper flakes)
     • 1 clove garlic (minced)
     • A small amount of onion (chopped)
     • ½ teaspoon sugar
     • Sesame oil (to taste)
     • Green onion (chopped)

2. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, gochugaru, minced garlic, chopped onion, sugar, and sesame oil.
   • Adjust the sesame oil and sugar to your preference.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Add Sauce to Tofu:

   • Reduce the heat to medium and pour the spicy sauce over the cooked tofu.
   • Stir gently to coat the tofu evenly with the sauce.

2. Garnish:

   • Sprinkle additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish.

3. Serve:

   • Transfer the tofu to a plate. Serve alongside rice, kimchi, or other side dishes for a complete meal.

Conclusion

You've now learned how to make delicious pan-fried tofu with a spicy seasoning sauce. This dish is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy it as a side dish or a protein-rich addition to your meals. Experiment with different sides to see what complements it best! Happy cooking!