Quick Weeknights · Korean
Dubu Jorim
Pan-seared tofu braised in a soy-chili sauce, providing a crisp exterior and a soft, flavorful center.
Why This Works
The initial sear creates a barrier that prevents the tofu from falling apart during the braising process, while the sauce penetrates the porous interior.
The Upgrade
Scatter some toasted seaweed strips (gim) over the top for a salty, crisp finish.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueAdding a pinch of cornstarch to the sauce helps it cling to the tofu, creating a beautiful glossy glaze that looks incredibly professional.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 30 min
Directions
Pat tofu slices extremely dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp rather than steam.
5 minHeat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2 minSear tofu until both sides are golden brown and form a sturdy crust.
8 minWhisk soy sauce, gochugaru, water, garlic, and sugar in a small bowl.
2 minPour the sauce over the seared tofu, lowering heat to medium to allow the liquid to reduce.
5 minBaste the tofu with the bubbling sauce frequently to ensure even flavor absorption.
3 minGarnish with green onion and sesame oil right before removing from the pan to lock in freshness.
2 minWine Pairing
Gewürztraminer
White Wine
The BottleTrimbach Gewürztraminer
The aromatic intensity and oily texture of Gewürztraminer stand up to the chili-soy glaze of the tofu. It balances the spice and highlights the soybean's natural umami.
Nutrition per Serving
210
calories
16g
protein
8g
carbs
13g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Sesame Spinach
Blanched spinach with toasted sesame oil adds a fresh, green element to the soy-braised tofu.
Ingredients
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Blanch spinach for exactly 30 seconds until vibrant and just wilted.
Drain immediately and shock in a bowl of ice water to lock in color.
Squeeze spinach firmly with both hands to remove all excess moisture.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and gently break apart the clump.
Toss thoroughly with sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and sesame seeds before serving.
Side Dish
Brown Rice
Hearty whole grains provide a nice chew to balance the softness of the braised tofu.
Ingredients
Directions
Rinse the brown rice under cold running water until the starch runs clear.
Combine the rice, water, salt, and oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
Bring to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
Fluff gently with a fork before serving alongside your braised tofu.
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