Dubu Jorim (Korean Braised Tofu)

Dubu jorim is one of those deeply satisfying Korean side dishes that brings a block of tofu to life. Braised in a savory, spicy-sweet sauce, this tofu dish is full of flavor and texture. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect with a warm bowl of rice. Whether you’re putting together a traditional Korean meal or just need a quick plant-based dish, dubu jorim is always a solid choice.

What is Dubu Jorim?

In Korean, “dubu” means tofu and “jorim” refers to a braised dish that’s simmered in a seasoned sauce. Dubu jorim is pan-fried tofu finished in a soy-based sauce with gochugaru, garlic, and onions. It’s a staple in Korean home cooking that’s easy to prepare and big on flavor.

Tips and Variations

• For extra depth of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of fish sauce or dashima broth to the sauce.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of gochugaru or replace it with mild chili flakes.
• This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be served warm or cold the next day.

5 from 1 vote

Dubu Jorim (Korean Braised Tofu)

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Ingredients

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• 1 block firm tofu
• ¹⁄₂ onion, sliced into strips
• ¹⁄₂ cup water
• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp chopped green onion
• 3 tbsp neutral cooking oil (like canola or vegetable oil)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Tofu

   Slice the tofu into flat, even squares and gently pat each piece dry with a paper towel. This step is important to help the tofu crisp up when pan-fried.

1. Make the Sauce

   In a small bowl, combine the water, soy sauce, gochugaru, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chopped green onion. Mix well and set aside.

1. Pan-Fry the Tofu

   Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu pieces in a single layer and pan-fry until each side is golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the tofu.

1. Braise the Tofu

   Once the tofu is nicely browned, pour the sauce evenly over the tofu. Add the sliced onion to the skillet. Cover with a lid and let it cook for a minute or two until the onion softens slightly. Gently move the tofu around in the pan so it absorbs all the sauce.

1. Garnish and Serve

   Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve hot or warm. This dish pairs beautifully with plain rice and other Korean side dishes.

Keywords: tofu, spicy

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