Dubu Jorim, Korean Braised Tofu

Dubu Jorim is a Korean braised tofu dish, is recognized for its savory and slightly spicy flavor profile. This dish is typically made by pan-frying tofu until golden and then braising or stewing it in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings.  Often it includes caramelized onion. In Korean dubu means tofu, while jorim is a reference to the braising or stewing of the tofu. It i is also a vegan dish.

Serving Dubu Jorim

The ideal way to serve dubu jorim is warm, immediately after cooking. Serve it in a shallow dish to showcase the golden-brown exterior of the tofu. The tofu is typically cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to serve and eat. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and a garnish of chopped green onions can add both visual appeal and a subtle flavor enhancement.

Pairing with Other Dishes

Dubu jorim is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions of items that go well with Korean braised tofu:

1. Steamed Rice: The most classic pairing is with plain steamed rice. The neutral taste of rice complements the rich flavors of the tofu, and it also helps to absorb the sauce.
2. Kimchi: Serving kimchi alongside dubu jorim adds a spicy and tangy element that contrasts nicely with the savory tofu.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and onions stir-fried in a light sauce can accompany the tofu to add freshness and balance to the meal.
4. Soup or Stew: A mild Korean soup or stew, such as doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew), can be a comforting addition to the meal, providing a soothing contrast to the more robust flavors of the tofu dish.
5. Noodles: Cold soba noodles or a light noodle salad can complement the tofu while adding an extra dimension of texture to the meal. Or do as the recipe here does and serve the stewed tofu with hot egg noodles.
6. Salad: Pair the dish with a regular salad or side sald. For example try serving it with Oi Muchim which is a spicy Korean cucumber salad. 
7. As a Sandwich: Yep! put the braised tofu between two slices of bread for a unique Asian tofu sandwich!

Beverage Pairings

When it comes to beverages, the following are suitable:

1. Green Tea: The subtle bitterness of green tea can cleanse the palate between bites.
2. Light Beers or Soju: For those who prefer alcoholic beverages, light beers or soju can pair well with the dish, balancing its savory taste.
3. Water: To keep the focus on the flavors of the food, water is always a safe and neutral choice. Try a sparkling water for an extra touch. 

In sum, dubu jorim, with its savory flavors and hearty texture of braised tofu, can be a delightful main dish when served warm and accompanied by complementary side dishes and beverages. The key is to balance the rich flavors of the tofu with lighter and more neutral accompaniments.

Below is a recipe that pairs the tofu with vegetables and egg noodles. You can make just the tofu and serve another way if desired.

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Dubu Jorim, Korean Braised Tofu

Yield: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Dubu Jorim is a vegan Korean braised tofu dish. It is an easy recipe, made in under 30 minutes and pairs well with rice, noodles, or kimchi.

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Ingredients

• For the veggies and noodles:
• 3 small bunches of baby bok choy, sliced
• ½ broccoli head, chopped
• ½ tsp ginger-garlic paste
• One package chinese egg noodles
• Handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• Sesame oil, as required
• ½ tsp sugar
• For the braised tofu:
• 18 oz firm tofu
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp sesame seed
• 2 scallions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp korean red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp sugar
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp water
• Vegetable oil, as required

Instructions

• Cook the noodles as per package instructions until al dente and rinse it under cold running water; drain and transfer them to a bowl.
• Drizzle small amount of sesame oil on it and toss well to grease them properly; set aside.
• To make the tofu, slice the tofu into small rectangles, each about ½’’ thick.
• Pat them with a paper towel to remove any moisture in it and set aside.
• Add rest of the ingredients for the braised tofu in a small bowl and whisk them together until they proper blend into a uniform mixture.
• Pour a tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet and heat it over moderate heat.
• Throw in the tofu pieces (be gentle while doing so as they crumble very easily) and sear one of its side for about 4-5 minutes before flipping it over and cooking the other side similarly.
• Once they turn golden brown, pour the sauce over browned tofu and some around them, along the sides of the skillet.
• Give it a nice stir and simmer them over slow flame for about 4-5 minutes.
• Turn them over and continue to cook for another couple of minutes or so.
• On the other gas oven, heat some oil in a separate frying pan and saute the ginger-garlic paste until it becomes fragrant.
• Throw in the brocolli as well as bok choy and stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until the leaves wilt.
• Sprinkle the chopped basil over the sauteed mixture, followed by oyster sauce, soy sauce as well as sugar.
• Continue to stir fry the veggies until the sugar dissolves and pile them up on a bed of the cooked noodles.
• Arrange the braised tofu on top and serve right away!

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 316Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 1184mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 5gSugar: 5gProtein: 19g

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Last Updated on December 7, 2023 by Carleen