Hello, buddy. If you are interested in creating memories over a hearty culinary expedition, I would like to share with you one of my favored recipes - Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Herbs and Peanuts. This recipe is a strong blend of flavors that will tantalize the palate and warm the heart. Think: crispy tofu with the zingy gochujang-glaze floral with lots of herbs, breaking through in all its scents, and smothered in peanuts. Really quite fun to work through the taste and textural joy of food that produces each bite to put a smile on your face. I will definitely be with you, guiding you cheerfully through every step, regardless of how new you are to cooking. So, warm up, open that inner chef of yours, and you're good to take a whack at doing some cooking that will make you smile and spread that smile all over your fam or friend. You must trust me; it's going to be thrilling, allowing you to seek out some more things to do.
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| Sticky Gochujang Tofu With Herbs And Peanuts |
You'll Discover
Why You'll Love Sticky Gochujang Tofu
1. Big Flavors, Simple Process: This recipe is all about delivering bold flavors without overcomplicating things. From the spicy kick of gochujang to the creamy crunch of peanuts, every bite bursts with excitement.
2. Perfect for Everyone: Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals, this dish works for all. Plus, it’s gluten-free adaptable!
3. Fast & Fuss-Free: With minimal prep and baking time, this is a quick recipe perfect for busy schedules.
What Is Gochujang?
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste known for its rich, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a cornerstone ingredient in Korean cuisine and has made its way into kitchens around the world for its versatility. You’ll find it adds depth to dishes like bibimbap, stews, and even marinades.
For this recipe, I recommend using a gochujang sauce (available in most grocery stores in the international aisle). It’s a bit more user-friendly, with added flavors like garlic and sesame that elevate the dish without extra effort.
Ingredients For Sticky Gochujang Tofu With Herbs And Peanuts
For the Tofu
- 1 block (16 oz) extra-firm tofu (vacuum-packed is ideal)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
For the Sticky Gochujang Sauce
- 3 tbsp gochujang sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- **2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (creamy or chunky, your choice!)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1-2 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
For Garnishing
- Fresh herbs: Cilantro, green onions, and Thai basil
- Crushed peanuts
- Optional veggies: Sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, or steamed broccoli
How To Make Sticky Gochujang Tofu With Herbs And Peanuts
Step 1: Prep The Tofu
Start by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture. If you’re using vacuum-packed tofu, you can skip this step or give it a quick pat-down with paper towels. Once prepped, tear the tofu into bite-sized chunks. This irregular shape helps the tofu crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Coat And Bake
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| Torn Tofu On Sheet Pan |
Place the tofu chunks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with avocado oil, sprinkle with cornstarch, salt, and pepper, and toss everything together to coat evenly. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
Step 3: Whip Up The Sauce
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| Gochujang Sauce For Tofu |
While the tofu bakes, combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Shake or whisk until smooth. The peanut butter adds a luscious creaminess that balances the heat of the gochujang perfectly.
Step 4: Sauce And Bake Again
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| Gochunang Tofu After Baking |
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| Pouring The Sauce |
Remove the baked tofu from the oven and pour the sauce over it, tossing to coat evenly. Return the tofu to the oven for another 5-10 minutes. This step allows the sauce to caramelize and cling to the tofu, creating that irresistible sticky texture.
Step 5: Garnish And Serve
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| Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Fresh Herbs and Crushed Peanuts With Steamed Rice |
Once out of the oven, transfer the tofu to a serving dish. Top with fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, and a squeeze of lime for brightness. Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Tips For Making The Best Sticky Gochujang Tofu
1. Tear, Don’t Cut: Tearing the tofu creates more surface area for crispiness, giving it an extra edge in texture.
2. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This ingredient is key to achieving that perfect crunch in the oven.
3. Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder version, mix in a little honey or brown sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Serves: 4
Calories Per Serving: 338
| % Daily Value | Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 23% | Total Fat | 18.2g |
| 0% | Cholesterol | 0mg |
| 28% | Sodium | 645.5mg |
| 11% | Total Carbohydrate | 29.9g |
| 6% | Dietary Fiber | 1.8g |
| — | Sugars | 10.2g |
| 28% | Protein | 14.1g |
| 0% | Vitamin A | 2µg |
| 0% | Vitamin C | 0mg |
| 11% | Iron | 1.9mg |
| 6% | Potassium | 299.7mg |
| 4% | Phosphorus | 54mg |
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Unlike other recipes, this version of Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Herbs and Peanuts brings together minimal ingredients for maximum impact. By focusing on texture and flavor balance, this dish is guaranteed to leave you craving more. The use of peanut butter adds a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the heat of the gochujang, while the fresh herbs provide a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This tofu dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
1) Serve over a warm bowl of jasmine rice with pickled vegetables for a Korean-inspired rice bowl.
2) Pair it with a crisp cucumber salad and roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced plate.
3) Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or rice paper rolls for a fun, hands-on meal.
Why Sticky Gochujang Tofu With Herbs and Peanuts Deserves A Spot On Your Table
If you’re tired of bland tofu recipes, this one is a game-changer. The sticky, spicy sauce clings to every crispy corner, while the fresh herbs and crunchy peanuts add layers of flavor and texture. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing—a perfect balance that’s hard to resist.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab that block of tofu, fire up the oven, and let’s create magic in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds (and maybe even your social media feed) will thank you!
Final Thoughts
Well, we saw the vibrant world of flavors and ended up at this lovely recipe: Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Herbs and Peanuts. I hope you had as much fun with this recipe as I did. Can you just imagine-tender on the inside and crisp on the outside? It is coated with this luscious sauce made from gochujang, with fresh herbs and peanuts sprinkle over-they need to provide warmth and color to one's palate!-it is truly a joy on the palate with every bite! This dish marries together wonderful textures with great tastes, making any occasion an event. Make it, and enjoy with friends and family, while happily creating memories around the dining table. Cooking should involve much more than just recipes-it should be about a journey of creativity and love through every step. Enjoy the experience and warm your heart and home with this dish. May this recipe fill your life with abundant tastes, joy, and inspiration.
FAQs About Sticky Gochujang Tofu With Herbs And Peanuts
1. Can I Use Regular Tofu Instead of Vacuum-Packed?
Yes, but you’ll need to press it for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy texture.
2. Is This Dish Gluten-Free?
It can be! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
3. What If I Have a Peanut Allergy?
Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. The flavors will still be delicious!
4. Can I Make This with Meat Instead of Tofu?
Absolutely! This sauce pairs beautifully with chicken, shrimp, or even beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, but for the best texture, store the baked tofu and sauce separately. Reheat the tofu in the oven or air fryer for crispiness, and warm up the sauce before combining.
6. What are some good substitutions for cilantro and peanuts if I have allergies?
You can replace cilantro with parsley or fresh basil for a similar herby touch. For peanuts, try crushed cashews, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds.
7. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free.
8. Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven to cook the tofu?
Yes, an air fryer works wonderfully for this recipe. Cook the tofu at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.
9. How can I adjust the spice level of the gochujang sauce?
To tone down the heat, reduce the amount of gochujang and add a little extra peanut butter or honey. If you love spice, feel free to add extra gochujang or even chili flakes.
10. What other vegetables pair well with this dish?
Crisp veggies like carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers work great. You can also add steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty addition.
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