# Crispy Golden Tofu with a 5-Ingredient Peanut Gochujang Sauce
Tofu, frequently referred to as the chameleon of the kitchen, absorbs an array of flavors and textures, rendering it an adaptable component in numerous recipes. One of the most enjoyable methods to prepare tofu involves baking it until it’s golden and crunchy, followed by a generous coating with a rich and tasty sauce. This article presents a delectable recipe for crispy golden tofu smothered in a 5-ingredient peanut gochujang sauce that is spicy, sweet, tangy, and truly scrumptious.
## Why This Recipe Shines
This tofu dish is an ode to flavor and texture. The crunchy exterior of the tofu pairs wonderfully with the sticky, spicy-sweet sauce, resulting in a meal that is not only gratifying but also simple to make. Here are several reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:
1. **Few Ingredients**: With only five key ingredients for the sauce, this recipe is straightforward, highlighting the flavors without the complexity.
2. **Rapid Preparation**: The tofu can be set up and cooked in approximately 40 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal or a speedy lunch.
3. **Flexible Serving Suggestions**: This dish can be enjoyed on its own, over rice, or as part of a more extensive spread with vegetables and herbs, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
### For the Tofu:
– Firm or extra-firm tofu
– Cornstarch
– Oil (for baking)
– Salt and pepper
### For the Peanut Gochujang Sauce:
– Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
– Peanut butter
– Soy sauce
– Rice vinegar
– Honey or maple syrup
### For Serving:
– Chopped peanuts
– Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or green onions)
– Rice or grains of your choosing
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Prepare the Tofu
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Press the tofu to extract excess moisture, then break it into chunks. Coat the tofu pieces with cornstarch, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of oil. This step is essential for achieving that crispy finish.
### 2. Bake the Tofu
Arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, flipping halfway through to guarantee even crispiness.
### 3. Make the Sauce
While the tofu is baking, prepare the gochujang sauce. In a jar or bowl, mix gochujang, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Shake or whisk until fully blended and smooth.
### 4. Coat the Tofu
After the tofu turns golden and crispy, take it out of the oven and drizzle the sauce on top. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are well coated.
### 5. Final Bake
Place the coated tofu back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step helps the sauce caramelize slightly and stick to the tofu, boosting the flavor.
### 6. Serve and Enjoy
Take the tofu out of the oven and drizzle it with any leftover sauce. Serve it over rice or with your favorite vegetables, garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.
## Tips for Success
– **Modify the Spice Level**: If you like a milder sauce, reduce the gochujang or swap it out for a less spicy chili paste.
– **Choose Quality Tofu**: For optimal texture, select firm or extra-firm tofu. Vacuum-packed tofu typically offers a better texture and requires less pressing.
– **Play with Flavors**: Don’t hesitate to add garlic, ginger, or sesame oil to the sauce for additional depth.
## Frequently Asked Questions
### How spicy is the sauce?
The sauce has a moderate spice level due to the gochujang. You can tone it down by using less gochujang or opting for a milder alternative.
### Can I use regular tofu instead of vacuum-packed?
Yes, but regular tofu might need extra pressing to remove moisture and could take longer to crisp in the oven.
### What can I use instead of peanut butter due to allergies?
If you have a peanut allergy, consider sunflower seed butter or tahini as a suitable replacement.
## Conclusion
This crispy golden tofu with a 5-ingredient peanut gochujang sauce is a delightful dish that merges exceptional flavor and texture. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a quick, fulfilling meal that still delivers on taste. Whether you’re a tofu lover or new to it, this recipe will surely delight. Savor the crunchy, sticky goodness and make it a favorite in your cooking lineup!