Dubu-jorim (Braised Tofu)
KOENKoreanSide dish⏱ 20 minEdit history

Dubu-jorim (Braised Tofu)

A classic Korean side dish of pan-fried tofu braised in a sweet-and-spicy soy sauce. Made from everyday ingredients in one pan in 20 minutes — the saucy bits are great over rice.

Ingredients

2servings
  • Firm tofu · about 300g, sliced 1cm thick1 block
  • Cooking oil · for frying2 tbsp
  • Green onion · sliced0.5
  • Sesame seeds1 tsp
  • Sauce
  • Soy sauce3 tbsp
  • Gochugaru (chili flakes)1 tbsp
  • Minced garlic1 tbsp
  • Sugar1 tsp
  • Sesame oil1 tsp
  • Water100 ml
  • Green chili · optional, chopped1

Steps

  1. Slice the tofu 1cm thick and press out the moisture with paper towels (dry tofu won't splatter and browns better).

    ⏲ 3 min
  2. Stir all the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl.

    ⏲ 1 min
  3. Heat the oil in a pan over medium and fry the tofu until golden on both sides, 3–4 minutes per side.

    ⏲ 7 min
  4. Spoon the sauce evenly over the tofu in the pan.

    ⏲ 1 min
  5. Braise uncovered over low heat 5–6 minutes until the sauce reduces and soaks in, spooning it over the tofu as it cooks.

    ⏲ 6 min
  6. Add the green onion, heat 1 minute more, and turn off. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve warm.

    ⏲ 2 min

Tips & Variations

Variations

  • Soy (mild): Skip the chili flakes for a gentle soy-only braise.
  • With radish: Braise over a layer of radish for a sweeter, juicier dish.
  • With potato or onion: Add vegetables and more liquid to stretch it.
  • Perilla finish: A drop of perilla oil at the end for extra aroma.

Tips

  • Press out the moisture so the tofu won't splatter and crisps up.
  • Brown the tofu first, then add the sauce, so it keeps its shape.
  • Spoon the sauce over as it braises so the flavor soaks in.
  • Leave a little sauce in the pan — it's great spooned over rice.
  • Add green chili for a sharper, spicier kick.

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