Microwave Tofu Ssamjang (Spicy Korean Dipping Sauce)
Easy Tofu Ssamjang: Ready in 4 Minutes in the Microwave!
Enjoy both nutritious tofu and flavorful ssamjang in one simple dish! This incredibly easy recipe uses just a microwave to create a delicious side dish in only 4 minutes. It’s perfect served with rice or wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves.
Main Ingredients- 1/2 block firm tofu (approx. 150g)
- 1/4 onion
- 1/4 green onion (scallion)
- 1 green chili pepper
- 1 Tbsp minced dried anchovy
- 1/2 red chili pepper
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1/3 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp mirin (cooking wine)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 4 Tbsp water
- 2 Tbsp doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1/3 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp mirin (cooking wine)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 4 Tbsp water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare all the ingredients for the Tofu Ssamjang. Lightly rinse the tofu under running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Wash and prepare the onion, green onion, green chili, and red chili.
Step 2
Thinly slice the onion. Finely chop the green onion, green chili, and red chili. Remove the seeds from the chilies; if you prefer it spicier, you can leave some seeds in or adjust the quantity.
Step 3
In a microwave-safe container, add 1 tablespoon of minced dried anchovy. (Using pre-minced anchovies will save you time.)
Step 4
Now, let’s mix the seasonings. Add 2 tablespoons of doenjang, 1/3 tablespoon of gochujang, 1 tablespoon of mirin, and 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic to the container.
Step 5
Mix these seasoning ingredients well with a spoon or spatula until smooth. Ensure the doenjang and gochujang are fully incorporated without lumps.
Step 6
Add the sliced onion, green onion, and green chili to the seasoned mixture in the container and mix gently.
Step 7
Add another 2 tablespoons of water and mix everything together again. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and microwave for 2 minutes. You’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks!
Step 8
After the first 2-minute microwaving, carefully remove the container. Cut the tofu (about 1.5cm thick) into bite-sized pieces and add it to the mixture. Add the thinly sliced red chili (taken from the freezer) and mix everything thoroughly.
Step 9
Cover the container again with a lid or plastic wrap and microwave for another 2 minutes. This will warm the tofu and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 10
Serve the finished Tofu Ssamjang immediately while warm, or let it cool slightly. Enjoy the combination of soft tofu and savory ssamjang! It’s delicious spooned over rice or wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.
