Gochujang Baked Tofu

Spicy, sticky, and satisfyingly crisp on the outside—this Gochujang Baked Tofu is a plant-based dream come true. Inspired by the bold, complex flavors of Korean cuisine, it combines gochujang’s fermented heat with hints of sweetness and tang for a balanced and crave-worthy glaze. Perfect as a protein-packed entrée or a spicy snack, this dish can stand alone or elevate your favorite rice bowls, wraps, or noodle dishes. It’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and sharing with friends who think tofu is boring—because this version is anything but!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave

• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for baking sheet)

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with neutral oil.

2. In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

3. Toss tofu cubes in the marinade and let sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

4. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss to coat evenly.

5. Arrange the tofu pieces on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch for even baking.

6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are crispy and caramelized.

7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onion and sesame seeds before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 190 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Discover the Bold Flavors of Gochujang Baked Tofu

When it comes to plant-based meals that deliver both in taste and nutrition, Gochujang Baked Tofu is a standout. This dish beautifully blends the umami heat of Korean gochujang with the neutral yet protein-rich goodness of tofu. It’s a meal that’s as nourishing as it is crave-worthy, and it’s quickly becoming a favorite among vegans, vegetarians, and even meat-eaters looking for a flavorful alternative.

Whether you’re new to cooking with tofu or a seasoned pro, this dish offers a no-fuss way to introduce bold, spicy-sweet flavors into your routine—without deep-frying or complicated steps.

What Is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a traditional Korean condiment made from red chili pepper flakes, fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and salt. The result is a deep red paste that’s thick, slightly sweet, intensely savory, and packing a slow-burning heat. It’s a staple in Korean cuisine and used in everything from marinades and dipping sauces to stews and soups.

The fermentation process gives gochujang a complex, umami-rich flavor that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients. When combined with the right blend of sweetness and acid—like in this baked tofu recipe—it transforms tofu from bland to addictive.

Why Tofu? The Plant-Based Protein Superstar

Tofu has long been a mainstay in plant-based diets, and for good reason. Made from soybeans, tofu is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids the body needs. It’s also low in calories, high in iron, and offers a good dose of calcium, depending on the variety.

For those reducing meat intake, tofu is an ideal meat substitute because it absorbs flavors beautifully while providing a similar satiety. When baked, it takes on a slightly crispy outer texture while remaining soft inside—perfect for holding sauces like gochujang glaze.

Health Benefits of Gochujang Baked Tofu

Not only does this dish deliver in taste, but it also offers an impressive array of nutritional benefits:

• High in Plant-Based Protein: With approximately 10 grams of protein per serving, this dish helps meet daily protein needs for vegetarians and vegans.
• Low in Saturated Fat: Unlike many meat-based spicy dishes, this baked tofu contains minimal saturated fat.
• Good Source of Iron and Calcium: Depending on the tofu variety used, the dish can contribute significantly to your daily intake of both minerals.
• Gut-Healthy Fermented Paste: Gochujang is fermented, which may provide probiotics that aid digestion and support gut health.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Chili peppers in gochujang contain capsaicin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the best things about Gochujang Baked Tofu is its versatility in meal planning. You can easily double the recipe, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it in a variety of ways throughout the week.

Here are just a few ideas:

• Toss it in a rice or quinoa bowl with cucumbers, shredded carrots, and kimchi
• Add to wraps or tacos with a creamy vegan mayo or spicy slaw
• Pair with soba noodles and steamed greens for a quick and nutritious lunch
• Serve it cold as a protein-rich snack straight from the fridge

It reheats well and even tastes delicious at room temperature, making it ideal for packed lunches.

Customizable and Allergy-Friendly

This recipe is naturally vegan and can easily be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. If you like things less spicy, reduce the amount of gochujang or mix it with a touch more maple syrup or rice vinegar for balance.

If you’re catering to those who aren’t big fans of tofu, try substituting with tempeh, seitan, or even cauliflower florets. The marinade works well with a range of textures and ingredients, allowing you to make the dish your own.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

What makes this Gochujang Baked Tofu recipe special isn’t just the flavor—it’s the method. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Pressing the tofu ensures a firmer texture and helps it absorb the marinade better.
• Cornstarch coating adds a subtle crisp to the edges without needing to deep fry.
• Baking at a high temperature creates a beautifully caramelized finish that locks in the gochujang glaze.

These small touches bring out the best in the tofu and elevate the whole dish to something truly restaurant-worthy.

Korean-Inspired, Global Appeal

Korean cuisine has gained massive popularity worldwide in recent years, thanks to its bold flavors, healthful ingredients, and satisfying spice levels. Dishes like bibimbap, kimchi jjigae, and bulgogi have found their way into home kitchens across the globe—and Gochujang Baked Tofu fits right into this trend.

This recipe makes the vibrant taste of Korea accessible even for those new to the cuisine. You don’t need to master complicated techniques or source rare ingredients. With a few pantry staples, you can bring authentic Korean flavor to your table tonight.

An Ethical, Eco-Friendly Choice

By choosing a dish like Gochujang Baked Tofu, you’re not just making a healthier choice for your body—you’re making a sustainable one for the planet. Compared to animal-based proteins, tofu requires significantly less land, water, and energy to produce.

For those embracing a plant-based lifestyle for environmental reasons, this recipe offers a delicious way to stay committed without feeling like you’re missing out on flavor or satisfaction.

Who Will Love This Dish?

Whether you’re a full-time vegan, a curious flexitarian, or someone just looking for new and exciting dinner ideas, this dish has universal appeal. It’s:

• Great for busy professionals who want a healthy, low-effort dinner
• Perfect for families introducing more plant-based meals to kids
• Ideal for meal preppers looking for high-protein, low-fuss recipes
• A go-to for spice lovers who want something bold and new

Tips for Serving and Presentation

Want to wow your guests or level up your food photography? Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Plate over black rice or brown jasmine rice for contrast
• Add pickled vegetables or kimchi for a fermented sidekick
• Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of vegan sriracha mayo
• Serve in a bento-style lunchbox with fresh fruit and edamame

Presentation makes a big impact, especially when posting on social media or serving friends. Gochujang Baked Tofu is naturally colorful and photogenic—especially with a glossy finish from the marinade.

Conclusion

There are recipes you try once and forget—and then there are the ones you return to, week after week. Gochujang Baked Tofu falls into the latter. It checks every box: flavorful, simple, nutritious, customizable, and visually stunning.

It’s a reminder that plant-based eating doesn’t have to be bland or overly complicated. With just a few ingredients and a bit of prep, you can create something truly special that feeds both body and soul.

Whether you’re adding it to your weeknight rotation or serving it as a centerpiece at your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.