Minji's Table

Korean Braised Tofu

Dubu Jorim

두부조림

Pan-seared tofu gently braised in a savory, mildly spicy sauce.

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Dubu Jorim, korean braised tofu in a savory-spicy gochugaru sauce
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2
Difficulty
Easy
Spice Level
Mild
Accessibility
One Korean Ingredient

What is Dubu Jorim?

Dubu Jorim (두부조림) is pan-seared tofu gently braised in a savory, mildly spicy sauce.

This home-cooking version uses measured ingredients and straightforward stovetop steps so international cooks can understand what each ingredient contributes.

On the Korean Table

Background

Dubu jorim combines pan-seared tofu with the Korean jorim technique, reducing a seasoned liquid around the slices. It is a familiar home-style banchan whose heat and sweetness vary by cook.

When and for Whom

It is usually part of an everyday rice meal and can serve as an affordable main protein or a shared side dish. Adults and older children often eat it, with the chile level adjusted at home.

What to Serve With It

Pair it with plain steamed rice, a mild soup, and fresh or blanched vegetable banchan. The rice balances its salty-spicy sauce, so additional strongly seasoned dishes are not necessary.

Ingredients

You Need

  • Tofufirm, drained 14 oz
  • Soy Sauce 2 tbsp
  • Water 0.33 cup
  • Garlicminced 1 clove
  • Cooking Oil 1 tbsp
  • Gochugaru 1 tsp

Nice to Have

  • Green Onionsliced 1 stalk
  • Sesame Oil 0.5 tsp

Ingredient Substitute Guides

Gochugaru Substitutes for Korean Cooking

Gochugaru has a distinctive balance of chile warmth, gentle fruitiness, red color, and flake texture. Another brand of real Korean gochugaru is the best choice; other chiles do not taste the same.

Compare Gochugaru substitutes →

Sesame Oil Substitutes for Korean Cooking

Toasted sesame oil is mainly a fragrant finishing seasoning in many Korean dishes, not simply a frying fat. Omit it first when optional; other oils replace function or offer a different flavor, never the same aroma.

Compare Sesame Oil substitutes →

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Prepare the ingredients

    Pat the tofu dry and cut it into thick, even slices.

  2. Step 2

    Build the base

    Pan-sear the tofu in cooking oil over medium heat until lightly golden on both sides.

  3. Step 3

    Cook gently

    Mix soy sauce, water, garlic, and gochugaru, then pour the sauce around the tofu.

  4. Step 4

    Finish and serve

    Simmer gently until the sauce reduces, spooning it over the tofu; finish with optional green onion and sesame oil.

Storage

Cool leftovers promptly, refrigerate in a covered container, and reheat only the portion you plan to eat. Texture is best when served fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dubu Jorim spicy?

This version is not spicy; black pepper or optional garnishes do not add chile heat.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead?

Yes. Wash and cut the ingredients ahead, keep them refrigerated, and begin the cooking steps close to serving time for the best texture.