Spicy Braised Tofu & Soy Sauce Braised Tofu
How to Make Spicy Braised Tofu and Mild Soy Sauce Tofu for Kids Simultaneously
Braised tofu is a fantastic side dish, perfect for meal prep and was a popular lunchbox item back in the day. Today, based on Chef Baek Jong-won’s recipe, I’ll show you a clever way to make two versions at once: a spicy one for adults and a mild, kid-friendly one. Get ready to make delicious braised tofu that the whole family can enjoy!
Spicy Braised Tofu (for Adults)
- 1.5 blocks Firm Tofu (approx. 450g)
- 3 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1.5 Tbsp Fish Sauce (anchovy or tuna)
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 cup Water (200ml)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- Green Onion (generous amount)
- 1 Korean Green Chili (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or sesame oil)
Mild Soy Sauce Braised Tofu (for Kids)
- 1/2 block Firm Tofu (approx. 150g)
- 1 Tbsp Sweet Soy Sauce or Soup Soy Sauce
- A little Minced Garlic (optional)
- 1/2 block Firm Tofu (approx. 150g)
- 1 Tbsp Sweet Soy Sauce or Soup Soy Sauce
- A little Minced Garlic (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the tofu. We’ll use 1.5 blocks for the spicy adult version and 0.5 block for the mild kid version. Slice the tofu into thick pieces, about 1.5 cm thick. If they are too thin, they’ll be difficult to pan-fry all at once. Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a wide pan and place the tofu slices in a single layer. Pan-fry them until golden brown. Since we’re making two types of braised tofu in one pan, choose a pan size that accommodates the total amount of tofu.
Step 2
When pan-frying the tofu, it’s important to flip the pieces that cook fastest, usually the edges, first. Continue to fry them gently until they achieve an even, golden-brown color on all sides.
Step 3
Once the tofu is nicely golden brown, carefully remove the portions designated for the mild soy sauce tofu for kids onto a separate plate. Now, we’ll directly season the tofu remaining in the pan. Chop the green onions generously according to your preference. If you like it spicy, finely chop the Korean green chili. (Do not add chili to the kid’s portion!)
Step 4
Now, let’s make the seasoning for the spicy adult braised tofu. To the pan with the fried tofu, add 3 Tbsp gochugaru, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, and 1 Tbsp sugar. Stir and cook for a moment to release their aromas.
Step 5
Pour in 1 cup (200ml) of water and add 1.5 Tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce) to season. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu. Gently stir occasionally to ensure the tofu absorbs the flavors evenly.
Step 6
Time to add the finishing touch! Instead of sesame oil, drizzle in 1 Tbsp of perilla oil for a richer, deeper flavor. If you don’t have perilla oil, sesame oil works well too.
Step 7
The spicy braised tofu is hot, so it’s best to store it in a glass container rather than plastic, especially when warm. This prevents any potential reaction with heat and ensures hygienic storage.
Step 8
Using the same pan, we’ll now make the mild soy sauce braised tofu for kids. Return the previously fried tofu pieces to the pan. Add about 1/3 cup (60ml) of water and 1 Tbsp of sweet soy sauce (or soup soy sauce). For the children’s portion, you can add just a tiny bit of minced garlic or omit it altogether.
Step 9
Simmer over medium-low heat until the tofu is nicely coated and infused with the soy sauce flavor. And voilà! You have delicious mild soy sauce braised tofu for kids. Making two distinct flavors of braised tofu from one pan is truly convenient!
