Dubu Jorim Recipe (Korean Braised Tofu)

Dubu Jorim is a simple and flavorful Korean braised tofu dish made with pan-fried tofu, onion, green onion, and a savory spicy soy-based sauce.

The tofu is lightly cooked in perilla oil, then simmered with a rich seasoning sauce made with soy sauce, gochugaru, garlic, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. It is soft, spicy, savory, and perfect with a bowl of steamed rice.

This easy Korean tofu recipe is a great choice when you want a quick homemade side dish or a light vegetarian-style meal.

What is Dubu Jorim?

Dubu Jorim means Korean braised tofu.

The word “dubu” means tofu, and “jorim” refers to a Korean cooking method where ingredients are simmered or braised in a seasoned sauce.

In Korea, Dubu Jorim is commonly served as a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a main dish with rice. The spicy sauce soaks into the tofu, making it rich and satisfying even though the ingredients are very simple.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Korean
• Main Ingredient: Tofu
• Best Served With: Steamed rice

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu
• 1/2 onion
• 1/2 green onion
• 1/2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 tbsp perilla oil

For the Braising Sauce

• 100ml water
• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp gochugaru
• 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Ingredient Notes

Tofu

Firm tofu works best for this recipe because it holds its shape better while cooking.

If you use soft tofu, it may break apart easily during braising.

Perilla Oil

Perilla oil gives the tofu a deep, nutty Korean flavor.

If you do not have perilla oil, you can use sesame oil, but perilla oil gives this dish a more traditional taste.

Gochugaru

Gochugaru is Korean red pepper flakes.

It adds a gentle spicy flavor and beautiful red color to the sauce.

Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce adds extra umami and depth.

Use only a small amount because soy sauce already gives the dish saltiness.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is added to the sauce for aroma and nutty flavor.

It helps make the braising sauce richer and more fragrant.

How to Make Dubu Jorim

Step 1: Drain the Tofu

Place the tofu in a strainer or on a plate.

Let it drain for a few minutes to remove excess water.

You can also gently pat the tofu with a paper towel.

Removing extra moisture helps the tofu cook better and absorb the sauce more easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the onion thinly.

Chop the green onion into small pieces.

Set them aside while preparing the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:

• 100ml water
• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp gochugaru
• 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Mix well until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is evenly combined.

Step 4: Cut the Tofu

Cut the tofu into thick, bite-sized slices.

Try not to slice it too thin, or it may break while cooking.

Step 5: Pan-Fry the Tofu

Heat a pan over medium-low heat.

Add cooking oil and perilla oil.

Place the tofu slices in the pan and cook gently for about 1 minute on each side.

The tofu does not need to become crispy. A light golden surface is enough.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables and Sauce

Once both sides of the tofu are lightly cooked, add the sliced onion and green onion on top.

Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu.

Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cover and Simmer

Cover the pan with a lid.

Simmer for 1 more minute so the tofu absorbs the sauce.

Spoon some of the sauce over the tofu while cooking if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Turn off the heat.

Transfer the tofu to a plate and spoon the remaining sauce over the top.

Serve hot with steamed rice.

Pro Tips

Drain the Tofu First

Tofu contains a lot of water.

Draining it before cooking helps prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

Use Medium-Low Heat

Tofu can break easily, so avoid using very high heat.

Medium-low heat helps the tofu stay soft while allowing it to absorb the sauce.

Do Not Over-Fry the Tofu

This recipe is not meant to make crispy tofu.

The tofu should stay soft and tender, with a light golden surface.

Spoon the Sauce Over the Tofu

While simmering, spoon the sauce over the tofu a few times.

This helps the flavor soak into the tofu more evenly.

Adjust the Saltiness

Soy sauce and oyster sauce are both salty.

If you prefer a lighter flavor, start with slightly less soy sauce and adjust after tasting.

What to Serve with Dubu Jorim

Dubu Jorim pairs well with:

• Steamed white rice
• Kimchi
• Roasted seaweed
• Fried egg
• Korean spinach side dish
• Bean sprout side dish
• Cucumber salad

For a simple Korean meal, serve it with rice and kimchi.

You can also mix the tofu and sauce directly into rice for a quick and comforting meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Dubu Jorim in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

It will keep well for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm it gently in a pan over low heat or microwave it briefly.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of water before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use soft tofu?

Firm tofu is recommended because it holds its shape better.

Soft tofu can be used, but it may break apart more easily.

Is Dubu Jorim spicy?

It is mildly to moderately spicy.

You can reduce the amount of gochugaru if you prefer a milder version.

Can I make this without oyster sauce?

Yes.

You can skip the oyster sauce and add a little more soy sauce or a small pinch of salt if needed.

Can I make Dubu Jorim vegetarian?

Yes.

To make it vegetarian, skip the oyster sauce or replace it with vegetarian oyster sauce.

Why is my tofu breaking apart?

The tofu may be too soft, sliced too thin, or handled too much during cooking.

Use firm tofu and flip it gently.

Can I eat Dubu Jorim cold?

Yes.

Dubu Jorim can be eaten warm, room temperature, or cold as a Korean side dish.

Final Thoughts

Dubu Jorim is one of the easiest Korean tofu dishes you can make at home.

With just one block of tofu and a simple spicy soy-based sauce, you can create a flavorful dish that goes perfectly with rice.

The combination of soft tofu, savory sauce, nutty sesame oil, and mild heat makes this Korean braised tofu comforting, affordable, and satisfying.

If you are looking for a simple Korean side dish or a quick tofu recipe, Dubu Jorim is a perfect choice.