Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of tofu hitting a hot skillet instantly transports me back to my favorite nights spent in the kitchen. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Quick and Easy Tofu Bulgogi recipe, a delightful plant-based twist on a Korean classic that packs a punch in flavor without the fuss. With its sweet and savory sauce, this dish embodies comfort food that’s surprisingly nutritious and guilt-free. Not only does it come together in a snap, making it an ideal weeknight meal, but it’s also a fantastic choice for both vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat intake. What’s more, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or enjoy it over rice, creating a meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe! Why will you love Tofu Bulgogi? Simplicity Made Delicious: This recipe is quick and easy, allowing even novice cooks to whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Robust Flavor: Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes that dance on your palate with every bite. Healthy Choice: Packed with plant-based protein and low in sodium, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that won’t derail your healthy eating goals. Endless Versatility: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or a meat lover, everyone will adore this delightful spin on a classic Korean dish. Time to spice up your dinner routine with this Tofu Bulgogi recipe—don’t forget to check out my tips on how to achieve perfect texture and flavor! Tofu Bulgogi Ingredients • Get ready for a flavor-packed experience with these Tofu Bulgogi ingredients! For the Sauce Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides essential umami flavor while keeping sodium in check; substitute with gluten-free soy sauce if needed. Dark Soy Sauce – Adds depth of flavor and color; can be omitted for a lighter version if unavailable. Brown Sugar – Used for sweetness to balance the salty components; maple syrup works great for a vegan-friendly option. Mirin – Brings a touch of sweetness and acidity; feel free to substitute with rice vinegar mixed with sugar if necessary. Onion (small, grated) – Enhances the dish with moisture and sweetness; substitute with scallions for a milder flavor. Garlic (cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is ideal. Salt and Pepper – Balance flavors; adjust to taste or omit salt for lower sodium. For the Tofu Extra Firm Tofu (2 blocks, 350 grams each) – Main protein source that holds up well when cooked; choose any firm tofu if preferred, but watch texture. Sesame Oil – Imparts richness and a nutty aroma; substitute with another light oil if necessary, keeping in mind that flavor will vary. Enjoy this Tofu Bulgogi dish that’s not only easy to make but bursting with flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tofu Bulgogi Step 1: Press Tofu Start by draining the tofu. Wrap the blocks in paper towels and place them on a sturdy plate. Weigh down the tofu with a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet or canned goods, to remove excess moisture. Let it press for about 30 minutes, ensuring the tofu is firm and ready to absorb the flavors. Step 2: Make Sauce In a small mixing bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients blend smoothly. This flavorful sauce will infuse your Tofu Bulgogi with its distinct sweet and savory character. Step 3: Prepare Tofu Once pressed, tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces. Aim for a mix of crumbled and larger chunks to create varied textures in your Tofu Bulgogi. This will give the dish a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall experience as you savor each bite. Step 4: Cook Tofu Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the crumbled tofu in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes without stirring, allowing it to develop a golden brown crust. Stir gently, cooking further until the tofu is evenly browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes total. Step 5: Combine Pour the prepared sauce over the golden tofu in the skillet. Stir gently to coat every piece evenly with the sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and soak into the tofu, creating a rich and flavorful Tofu Bulgogi that glistens enticingly. Step 6: Serve Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the Tofu Bulgogi to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like. Serve warm over steamed rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist on this delicious, cozy meal. What to Serve with Tofu Bulgogi Elevate your meal with vibrant and complementary sides that make this delightful dish even more satisfying. Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is the perfect base to soak up the rich sauce, balancing flavors beautifully. Its delicate, fluffy nature adds just the right texture. Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad adds brightness to your meal with its zesty dressing. It’s light and cleanse the palate after each savory bite. Kimchi: This traditional Korean side brings a spicy, tangy kick that pairs harmoniously with the sweetness of Tofu Bulgogi. The fermented flavors enhance your dining experience and delight the senses. Garlic Broccoli Stir-Fry: This dish adds vibrant green colors and a satisfying crunch, with garlic complementing the savory notes of the bulgogi. Plus, it packs in some extra nutrition. Quinoa with Chopped Herbs: A nutty, protein-packed option that offers a delightful chew, adding textural variety to your meal. Fresh herbs brighten the dish, tying in flavors beautifully. Miso Soup: Warm and nourishing, this classic soup enhances the Asian theme and provides soothing comfort to your meal. Its umami depth can complement any side dish perfectly. Coconut Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this treat brings a rich creaminess and chewy texture that wonderfully contrasts with the savory tofu. Ideal for satisfying your dessert cravings without any heaviness! Expert Tips for Tofu Bulgogi Press Thoroughly: Properly pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving the right texture. Ensure to remove excess moisture for optimal flavor absorption. Watch the Heat: Maintain medium heat when cooking the tofu. Too high can burn it, while too low won’t create that desirable crispy texture—aim for golden! Flavor Boost: For enhanced depth of flavor, consider marinating the pressed tofu in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Mix Textures: Tear the tofu into various sizes—mix crumbles with larger chunks for a delightful textural contrast in your Tofu Bulgogi. Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning as desired, especially salt and pepper, to suit your palate and dietary needs. The low sodium soy sauce will guide your choices. Add Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the sautéeing process for extra nutrients and crunch in your Tofu Bulgogi. Make Ahead Options Tofu Bulgogi is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can press the tofu and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, feel free to tear the tofu into pieces a day ahead; just keep it covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat sesame oil in a skillet, cook the tofu until golden, pour in the sauce, and stir to combine—resulting in a delicious Tofu Bulgogi that tastes just as fresh! Prep ahead to enjoy this flavorful dish with ease and convenience. Tofu Bulgogi: Delicious Variations Get ready to elevate your Tofu Bulgogi with these fun ideas that spark your culinary creativity! Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by tossing in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during cooking for vibrant flavor and texture. A colorful plate not only pleases the eye but makes every bite more exciting! Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, mix in gochujang, a Korean chili paste, to your sauce for a fiery twist that enhances the overall flavor profile. Just remember—start small and adjust to your spice preference! Swap the Protein: Feeling adventurous? Replace tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different texture and taste. Each offers a unique take on Tofu Bulgogi while maintaining that comforting essence. Nutty Flavor: Drizzle a bit of peanut or almond butter into your sauce for an unexpected nutty depth. This addition creates a delicious fusion, balancing the sweetness and umami in delightful harmony. Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice at the end for a bright, zesty finish that lifts the richness of the dish. It’s like sunshine in a bowl! Rice Variations: Switch up your serving base! Instead of plain white rice, try it over quinoa for added protein or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option. Your meal will feel refreshed and new! Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top right before serving. These herbs add a burst of freshness that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Saucy Glaze: If you’re a sauce lover, double the sauce recipe or add a splash of vegetable broth for a more saucy and enjoyable dish that coats every morsel with flavor. Embrace these variations to craft your very own signature Tofu Bulgogi that keeps dinner exciting! If you’re looking for more ideas, why not try incorporating seasonal vegetables? A trip to the farmer’s market might inspire even more delicious combinations! How to Store and Freeze Tofu Bulgogi Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the Tofu Bulgogi to room temperature before sealing to maintain optimal texture. Freezer: If you want to freeze your Tofu Bulgogi, it can be stored in a suitable container for up to 3 months. For best quality, separate into individual portions before freezing. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This helps maintain the dish’s flavorful integrity. Serving Tip: If reheating from frozen, add a splash of water to the pan to keep the tofu moist, allowing you to relish every delicious bite of your Tofu Bulgogi! Tofu Bulgogi Recipe FAQs What kind of tofu should I use for Tofu Bulgogi? Absolutely! For Tofu Bulgogi, I recommend using extra firm tofu as it holds its shape well during cooking and absorbs flavors beautifully. If you can’t find extra firm, any firm tofu will work, but just be mindful of the texture; it may become crumblier. How should I store leftover Tofu Bulgogi? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the Tofu Bulgogi cool down to room temperature before sealing it up. This helps to maintain its texture. Can I freeze Tofu Bulgogi? Yes! You can freeze Tofu Bulgogi for up to 3 months. I recommend dividing it into individual portions for convenience. To freeze, simply place the cooled dish in airtight containers or freezer bags. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Why is my tofu falling apart during cooking? If your tofu falls apart, it might be because it wasn’t pressed long enough to remove excess moisture. Pressing is crucial, so wrap it well and weigh it down for at least 30 minutes. Also, be gentle while stirring in the skillet to keep the pieces intact. How can I make Tofu Bulgogi vegan? The beauty of this dish is that it’s already vegan! Just ensure that all the ingredients, especially the soy sauce and sweeteners, are labeled vegan-friendly. For a sweeter alternative to brown sugar, you can use maple syrup; it pairs beautifully with the other flavors. Can I add vegetables to the Tofu Bulgogi? Very! You can definitely include seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to your Tofu Bulgogi. Simply add them into the skillet during the cooking process alongside the tofu for extra nutrition and color. They will cook quickly and contribute wonderful flavors to the dish. Savory Tofu Bulgogi: A Quick and Flavorful Weeknight Meal Tofu Bulgogi is a plant-based twist on a Korean classic, packed with flavor and quick to prepare—ideal for a weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsPressing Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: KoreanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce substitute with gluten-free soy sauce if needed1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce can be omitted if unavailable2 tablespoons Brown Sugar maple syrup works as a vegan alternative2 tablespoons Mirin or substitute with rice vinegar mixed with sugar1 small Onion grated, or substitute with scallions3 cloves Garlic minced, use garlic powder if necessaryto taste Salt adjust to tasteto taste Pepper adjust to tasteFor the Tofu2 blocks Extra Firm Tofu 350 grams each1 tablespoon Sesame Oil or substitute with another light oil Equipment skilletMixing bowlHeavy object Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Tofu BulgogiPressing the tofu by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for 30 minutes.Making the sauce by combining soy sauces, mirin, brown sugar, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.Preparing the tofu by tearing it into bite-sized pieces.Cooking the tofu in a skillet with sesame oil until golden brown and slightly crispy.Combining the cooked tofu with the prepared sauce in the skillet and cooking for an additional 5 minutes.Serving the Tofu Bulgogi warm, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesPressing the tofu thoroughly ensures optimal flavor absorption. Adjust seasoning to your taste, and feel free to add seasonal vegetables for a nutritious boost. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
