Spicy and Sweet Braised Squid and Tofu
The Perfect Pairing for Rice: Delicious Braised Tofu with Squid!
A delightful combination of two beloved Korean dishes: braised tofu and stir-fried squid! This ‘Ojingeo Dubu Jorim’ features chewy squid and tender tofu simmered in a savory, slightly sweet, and spicy sauce that is absolutely addictive with a bowl of steamed rice. It’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Main Ingredients- 1 squid (cleaned, about 200-250g)
- 1/2 block firm tofu (approx. 200g)
- 1 handful bean sprouts (approx. 50g)
- 1/2 stalk green onion
- 1/4 onion
- 1/2 cup (100ml) anchovy-kelp broth
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
Seasoning Ingredients- 6 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – optional, for extra spice
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 6 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) – optional, for extra spice
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the onion into strips and diagonally slice the green onion into about 0.5cm thick pieces. This slicing method helps the braising sauce penetrate the vegetables beautifully.
Step 2
Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces, about 2cm thick, either square or triangular. Lightly season the tofu pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple seasoning helps to remove any unwanted tofu odor and enhances its flavor.
Step 3
Rinse the cleaned squid thoroughly. Using the back of a knife or the tip, make diamond-shaped scores on the inside of the squid body; this helps it cook more tenderly and look more appealing. Then, slice the squid into strips about 0.5cm thick.
Step 4
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced squid and onion. Add all the seasoning ingredients (soy sauce, sugar, gochujang, minced garlic, black pepper, and optional gochugaru) and gently mix with your hands or a spoon. Marinating for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld.
Step 5
Heat about 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Place the seasoned tofu pieces and sear them until golden brown on both sides. Once the tofu is lightly browned, add the marinated squid and onion mixture. Stir-fry until the squid turns opaque, about 70% cooked.
Step 6
When the squid is about 70% cooked, pour in the anchovy-kelp broth (1/2 cup or 100ml). Bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and coat the ingredients. This step allows the flavors to deepen and meld.
Step 7
Once the broth is bubbling, arrange the fresh bean sprouts and sliced green onions on top of the squid and tofu. Cover the pot with a lid and continue to cook for another 3 minutes. This brief steaming will cook the bean sprouts until tender-crisp while keeping them fresh. Your delicious Braised Squid and Tofu is ready! Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil just before serving for an extra aroma and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
