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Seared Tofu with Kimchi Butter and Sesame


  • Author: Stephanie
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tofu

14 oz (400 g) firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Kimchi Butter

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/3 cup kimchi, finely chopped

1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Garnish

1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

1 green onion, thinly sliced


Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

  • Pat tofu dry to remove excess moisture.

  • Season lightly with salt and pepper.

  • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Sear tofu cubes 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove from skillet.

2. Make Kimchi Butter

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

  • Add chopped kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

  • Sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized.

3. Combine Tofu and Sauce

  • Return tofu to skillet. Toss gently to coat with kimchi butter.

  • Cook 1–2 more minutes to meld flavors.

4. Serve

  • Plate tofu and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.

  • Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

Press tofu well for maximum crispiness.

Adjust gochujang for desired heat level.

Butter can be substituted with vegan butter for plant-based option.

Can also broil tofu for extra crisp texture before adding kimchi butter.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 15

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320