Recipe Dubu Jorim

Dubu Jorim, also known as braised tofu, is a popular Korean side dish that is both healthy and flavorful. It features tofu simmered in a savory and slightly spicy sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, green onions, and other seasonings. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a perfect Dubu Jorim.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 block of firm tofu (about 14 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup water

Sauce Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)

Garnish

• Additional chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1. Drain and Press Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain any excess water. Place the tofu block between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, and press it gently to remove excess moisture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Slice the Tofu: Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, gochugaru, mirin, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, chopped green onion, sesame seeds, and grated ginger (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Tofu

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the Tofu: Add the tofu slices to the pan and cook until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Be gentle when flipping the tofu to avoid breaking the pieces.

Step 4: Braise the Tofu

1. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu in the pan. Add 1 cup of water to the pan and gently stir to coat the tofu with the sauce.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the tofu simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sauce should thicken slightly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Transfer the Dubu Jorim to a serving dish and garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
2. Serve: Dubu Jorim is best enjoyed warm, alongside rice and other Korean side dishes.

Tips

1. Pressing Tofu: Properly pressing the tofu is crucial to achieve a nice texture. Removing excess moisture helps the tofu absorb the sauce better and prevents it from crumbling during cooking.
2. Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochugaru or omit it entirely. For a spicier version, add more gochugaru or include some sliced fresh chili peppers.
3. Adding Vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, consider adding vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them briefly before adding the tofu to the pan.

Variations

1. Mushroom Dubu Jorim: Add sliced mushrooms such as shiitake or button mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and texture. Sauté the mushrooms with the tofu before adding the sauce.
2. Spicy Dubu Jorim: Increase the amount of gochugaru or add a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce for a spicier kick.
3. Sweet and Spicy Dubu Jorim: Add a tablespoon of Korean corn syrup (mulyeot) or maple syrup to the sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor profile.

Calorie Information

The approximate calorie count for a serving of Dubu Jorim (based on 4 servings) is:

• Calories: 150-200 kcal
• Protein: 10-12 grams
• Fat: 8-10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams

(Note: Calorie information may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.)

Conclusion

Dubu Jorim is a versatile and delightful Korean dish that brings together the simplicity of tofu with the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. It's a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into their diet without compromising on taste. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, Dubu Jorim is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavors of this traditional Korean braised tofu!