When you think of Korean cuisine, you might picture sizzling meats and bold flavors. One dish that beautifully adapts this tradition into a delightful vegetarian option is Tofu Bulgogi. This recipe offers a harmonious blend of savory umami flavors, along with a slightly sweet undertone that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Korean cooking while being kind to your diet.
Why We Love This Tofu Bulgogi Recipe
Tofu Bulgogi is adored for several reasons. First, it embodies the characteristics of traditional bulgogi while embracing wholesome plant-based ingredients. The marinated tofu absorbs the sauces beautifully, resulting in a dish that bursts with flavor. You can enjoy it as a main course, a side dish, or even as part of a rice bowl. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve to guests. This dish is also extremely versatile, accommodating various dietary preferences and allowing for creative twists.
Ingredients for Tofu Bulgogi
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for the best flavor. Here’s what you will need:
- 6 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 small onion, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 (350 grams) blocks of extra firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
How to Make Tofu Bulgogi Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Begin by pressing the tofu using your preferred method to expel excess moisture. This step is crucial, as it allows the tofu to absorb the marinade better, making every bite flavorful.
While waiting for the tofu, you can prepare the marinade. In a smaller bowl, mix together the low sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend these ingredients well to create a smooth sauce that will enhance the tofu.
Once pressed, take the tofu and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Feel free to crumble some of it for extra texture but also leave larger chunks to create a variety of mouthfuls. This mixture of sizes will contribute to a more exciting eating experience.
Heat the tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently add the crumbled tofu, spreading it out in an even layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about one to two minutes, allowing the bottom to get golden and slightly crispy. Flip the tofu occasionally, repeating this until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Now, pour your prepared sauce over the tofu. Stir well to ensure each piece is coated. Allow it to simmer for around five minutes or until the sauce reduces and sticks to the tofu. This step intensifies the flavors and gives the tofu a beautiful sheen.
When done, your Tofu Bulgogi is ready to be served! For an added touch, consider garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
How to Serve Tofu Bulgogi
One of the best aspects of Tofu Bulgogi is its versatility when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it in several ways. Serve the flavorful tofu over steamed rice for a hearty meal. The sauce pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, soaking in all those rich flavors.
Additionally, you can wrap Tofu Bulgogi in lettuce leaves for a refreshing, crunchy bite. This method adds a crisp texture and elevates the dish to another level of experience. You might also consider pairing it with kimchi or other pickled vegetables to enhance the meal’s boldness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even prepare a bulgogi-themed bowl combining the tofu with grains, fresh veggies, and some avocado for a vibrant and nutritious lunch or dinner option.
Expert Tips for Tofu Bulgogi
To elevate your Tofu Bulgogi and ensure perfect results, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Pressing Tofu: Spending adequate time pressing your tofu is key. A tofu press or even a few heavy objects can help remove moisture effectively.
- Marinating: For even deeper flavors, consider marinating the tofu for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will allow the flavors to permeate the tofu more thoroughly.
- Cooking Temperature: Don’t rush the cooking process; medium heat ensures the tofu crisps up nicely without burning.
- Texture Variety: Play around with how you cut the tofu. Mixing small crumbles with larger chunks creates contrasting textures that make each bite unique.
- Garnishes: Adding garnishes like fresh herbs, sesame seeds, or sliced scallions not only enhances the presentation but also integrates fresh flavors.
How to Store Tofu Bulgogi
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing Tofu Bulgogi properly will ensure you can enjoy it again later. First, let the tofu cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its texture and prevent sogginess.
You can store your Tofu Bulgogi in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to eat, reheating can be done on the stovetop or microwave, but for the crispiest results, warming it in a skillet is recommended.
Variation of Tofu Bulgogi
Tofu Bulgogi is not set in stone; you can easily adapt it to your preferences or pantry availability. Here are several variations to consider:
- Different Proteins: If you want to mix it up, consider substituting extrafirm tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different texture and taste profile.
- Add Veggies: Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini during cooking can enhance nutrition and add more color to your dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or red pepper flakes to the sauce for added spice.
- Nutty Flavor: Consider incorporating a tablespoon of peanut butter or tahini into your sauce for a creamy, nutty richness.
- Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro or Thai basil at the end for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
FAQ about Tofu Bulgogi
- What is Tofu Bulgogi?
- Tofu Bulgogi is a vegetarian take on the traditional Korean dish bulgogi, featuring marinated tofu cooked until golden and caramelized.
- What can I serve with Tofu Bulgogi?
- You can serve Tofu Bulgogi over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as part of a rice bowl. It pairs excellently with pickled vegetables and fresh herbs.
- How long does Tofu Bulgogi last in the refrigerator?
- When stored in an airtight container, Tofu Bulgogi will last up to four days in the refrigerator.
- Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?
- Yes, tempeh or seitan are great alternatives you can use in place of tofu for a different texture.
- Does Tofu Bulgogi freeze well?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Tofu Bulgogi, but keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing. It’s recommended to consume it within a couple of months.
Tofu Bulgogi
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 6 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 small onion, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
For the Tofu
- 2 (350 grams) blocks of extra firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Press the tofu to expel excess moisture.
- In a smaller bowl, mix together the low sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Tear the pressed tofu into bite-sized pieces, crumbling some for extra texture.
Cooking
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the tofu to the skillet in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
- Flip the tofu occasionally and cook until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the tofu and stir to coat well.
- Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce reduces and sticks to the tofu.
Serving
- Serve the Tofu Bulgogi over steamed rice, in lettuce wraps, or in a bulgogi-themed bowl with grains and fresh veggies.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!