
Savory and flavorful Korean BBQ marinated tofu, grilled or pan-fried to perfection, and served with a refreshing side of sesame spinach (sigeumchi namul). A delicious and satisfying vegetarian Korean meal.
Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into ½ inch thick slices.
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar to create the Korean BBQ marinade.
Add the tofu slices to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor.
While the tofu marinates, prepare the sesame spinach. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the spinach and cook for 30-60 seconds, until wilted and bright green.
Immediately drain the spinach and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Squeeze out any excess water.
In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach with soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and sesame seeds. Mix well.
Preheat your grill to medium heat or heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Grill or pan-fry the marinated tofu for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serve the grilled or pan-fried Korean BBQ tofu immediately with a side of sesame spinach. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Nutrition per serving (260g)
For best results, use extra-firm tofu and press it well to remove excess water. This allows the tofu to absorb the marinade better and become firmer when cooked.
Adjust the amount of gochujang in the marinade to suit your spice preference. You can add more or less depending on how spicy you want the tofu to be.
Marinating the tofu for a longer period will result in a more flavorful dish. If you have time, marinate the tofu in the refrigerator for several hours.
If you don't have a grill, you can also bake the tofu in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve with rice and other Korean side dishes (banchan) for a complete and authentic Korean meal.
Large Bowl
Small Saucepan
Grill or Large Skillet
No wine pairing suggestions available for this recipe.