Tubu Choerim Recipe

This recipe was submitted by our long time volunteer chef Sue Sheldon. If you like spicy food you will love this recipe, the Korean chili powder really gives this easy-to-prepare tofu dish a kick.

Tubu Choerim (fried spiced tofu):

2 packages firm tofu (not silken)
1 cup soy sauce
1 2/3 cups water
1 1/2 - 2 tablespoons hot Korean chili powder
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
3 tablespoons minced garlic
3 scallions, bias cut

Canola oil for frying

1. Use a knife to open the packages of tofu and drain the water out
2. Slice the tofu across the narrow end into about 6 slices, then cut each slice in half, to get rectangles about 2 X 2 1/2 X 1/2 inch.
3. Mix remaining ingredients in a bowl.
4. Heat about a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan until a drop of water sizzles when it hits the pan.
5. Fry the tofu in a single layer over medium heat; you will need to cook several batches.
6. When the tofu browns on one side (~3 minutes) turn it over.
7. Add about 1/4 cup sauce for each 6-8 pieces of tofu; the sauce will reduce and cling to the tofu, turning it a reddish color.
8. Place the cooked tofu ona warm platter while you cook the next batch.