What is Dubu Jorim?
Dubu Jorim is a beloved Korean dish that features tofu braised in a delicious, savoury sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Often served as a side dish, it’s known for its balance of flavours—salty, savoury, and slightly sweet. The tofu absorbs the sauce beautifully, making it a comforting and nutritious addition to any meal.
A Brief History of Dubu Jorim
Historically, Dubu Jorim has been a staple in Korean homes for centuries. It is often prepared as a side dish for rice, served alongside banchan (small dishes in a Korean meal), or even enjoyed as a light meal. It’s a dish deeply rooted in Korean culinary traditions and continues to be a family favourite.
Cultural Significance
In Korea, tofu is seen as a healthy and humble ingredient. Dubu Jorim is a dish that perfectly embodies the philosophy of using simple ingredients to create something delicious and satisfying.
Is Dubu Jorim Spicy?
The dish itself isn’t overly spicy, but it can be adjusted to your preference by adding more Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) or even gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) for a spicier kick.
Variations of Dubu Jorim
While the traditional Dubu Jorim recipe calls for simple ingredients, you can get creative with the dish. Some popular variations include:
- Seafood Dubu Jorim: Adding shrimp, mussels, or clams to the tofu.
- Vegetable Dubu Jorim: Enhancing the dish with vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, and onions.
- Kimchi Dubu Jorim: A fusion of tofu and kimchi for added flavour and spice.
- Spicy Gochujang Dubu Jorim: For those who love spice, adding gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) to Dubu Jorim will bring an extra layer of heat and umami.
Sweet and Sour Dubu Jorim: The Sweet and Sour Dubu Jorim variation is a delightful choice. The balance of flavours makes it both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients for Dubu Jorim
To prepare Dubu Jorim, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients, most of which you can find in any well-stocked Asian grocery store.
- Tofu (soft or firm, depending on your preference)
- Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
- Soy sauce (the base of the sauce)
- Garlic (minced)
- Ginger (minced)
- Green onions (sliced)
- Sesame oil (adds richness and fragrance)
- Onions (sliced)
- Carrots (julienned)
- Mushrooms (shiitake or oyster)
- Scallions (for garnish)
- Korean red pepper paste (gochujang) for added spice
- Mirin (adds a slight sweetness)
- Sugar (balances the salty flavour)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Choosing the Right Tofu
When making Dubu Jorim, the type of tofu you choose will impact the texture of the dish.
What Type of Tofu is Best for Dubu Jorim?
Firm tofu is often the best choice for Dubu Jorim because it holds its shape well during cooking and absorbs the sauce without falling apart. If you prefer a softer texture, soft tofu can be used, but it may require a gentler touch while cooking.
Where to Buy Tofu
Most Asian grocery stores carry a variety of tofu options. Look for tofu labelled specifically for Korean or Japanese cuisine, as it tends to have the best texture for dishes like Dubu Jorim.
How to Store Tofu
Store tofu in the refrigerator in its original packaging. Once opened, keep it submerged in water in an airtight container to maintain its freshness for up to 3 days.
5 Simple Steps to Make Dubu Jorim
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Dubu Jorim.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
- Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Slice the green onions and any other vegetables you’re using (such as onions, carrots, or mushrooms).
In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- Optional: 1 tablespoon gochujang (for more spice), 1 tablespoon mirin (for sweetness), and 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance flavours).
Mix the ingredients well until evenly combined.
Place the tofu cubes in a large bowl and pour the sauce over the tofu. Gently toss the tofu to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for deeper flavour).
Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a pot or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated tofu and any vegetables you’re using (onions, carrots, mushrooms). Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu.
Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve Dubu Jorim hot with steamed rice or as a side dish to a Korean meal.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Dubu Jorim
- Marinating time: For the most flavourful tofu, marinate it for at least 30 minutes. Longer marination (up to 2 hours) will deepen the flavour.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Ensure the tofu has enough space in the pan to simmer evenly, which will help the sauce to thicken and coat the tofu properly.
- Adjust spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, use less gochugaru and skip the gochujang. For more spice, increase the amount of chili flakes.
- Experiment with variations: Try adding different vegetables, or switch up the tofu for seafood or meat for a different take on Dubu Jorim.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Dubu Jorim is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many other Korean meals. Here are some ideas:
- Serve with steamed rice: A bowl of rice is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich, savoury sauce.
- Pair with other Korean dishes: Enjoy Dubu Jorim alongside dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, or kimchi jjigae.
- Incorporate into stir-fries: Add Dubu Jorim to stir-fries for a protein-packed addition.
- Use as a filling for wraps or sandwiches: For a fun twist, wrap the tofu in lettuce leaves or use it as a filling for a sandwich.
Troubleshooting
- Tofu falling apart: Be gentle with the tofu when stirring it in the pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the tofu to break apart.
- Sauce too watery: If the sauce hasn’t thickened, continue to simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to a thicker consistency.
- Not flavourful enough: If the dish lacks depth, add more soy sauce, gochugaru, or sugar, and let it marinate for longer.
Nutritional Information
Dubu Jorim is not only delicious but also a healthy option. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:
Nutritional Profile of Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Nutritional Benefits | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|---|
|
Tofu |
A great source of complete plant protein, rich in calcium and iron, and low in calories. |
Protein, calcium, iron |
|
Soy Sauce |
Adds umami flavour while providing small amounts of essential amino acids. |
Sodium, amino acids |
|
Garlic |
Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. |
Vitamin C, manganese, allicin |
|
Ginger |
Supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. |
Gingerol, magnesium |
|
Sesame Oil |
Contains heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. |
Vitamin E, healthy fats |
|
Gochugaru |
Provides a spicy kick while being low in calories and high in capsaicin, which boosts metabolism. |
Capsaicin, vitamin A |
Estimated Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving
The following values are estimates based on a standard serving of Dubu Jorim (approx. 1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value * |
|---|---|---|
|
Calories |
~150 kcal |
8% |
|
Protein |
10 g |
20% |
|
Total Fat |
6 g |
9% |
|
Saturated Fat |
1 g |
5% |
|
Carbohydrates |
12 g |
4% |
|
Dietary Fibre |
2 g |
8% |
|
Sodium |
600 mg |
25% |
|
Calcium |
100 mg |
10% |
|
Iron |
2 mg |
11% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Silken tofu can be used, but it’s more delicate and may fall apart more easily. Firm tofu is preferred for its sturdiness.
If you don’t have gochugaru, you can substitute with regular chili flakes, but the flavour may differ slightly.
Yes, you can. Just layer the marinated tofu and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
When the sauce has thickened and coats the tofu, and the tofu has absorbed the flavours of the sauce, it’s ready to serve.
While tofu can be frozen, it may change texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for later use.
Dubu Jorim Recipe Variations
Seafood Dubu Jorim
Add shrimp, mussels, or clams to the Dubu Jorim for a delightful seafood variation. Simply cook the seafood with the tofu in the sauce.
Vegetable Dubu Jorim
Incorporate vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, and onions to add more flavour and texture to the dish.
Kimchi Dubu Jorim
Add kimchi to the pan while cooking for a spicy, tangy twist that complements the savoury tofu.
Spicy Gochujang Dubu Jorim
For those who love spice, adding gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) to Dubu Jorim will bring an extra layer of heat and umami.
Sweet and Sour Dubu Jorim
For a dish with a contrast of sweet and tangy notes, the Sweet and Sour Dubu Jorim variation is a delightful choice.
While Dubu Jorim shines on its own, it also pairs wonderfully with other Korean dishes. Here are a few ideas for creating a complete meal:
Bibimbap – A popular Korean dish that includes rice, sautéed vegetables, and an egg on top, Dubu Jorim is a great addition to this dish for extra flavour and protein.
Bulgogi – Korean grilled beef is often served with rice and other side dishes. Adding Dubu Jorim enhances the meal with its savoury richness.
Kimchi – The tangy, fermented flavour of kimchi complements the mildness of tofu, making them a perfect pair.
Korean Pancakes (Jeon) – These crispy, savoury pancakes are a great complement to the soft and saucy tofu of Dubu Jorim.
If you’re looking to elevate your Dubu Jorim experience, you can serve it alongside a steaming bowl of Korean rice or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing alternative.
Conclusion
Dubu Jorim is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that brings the flavours of Korean cuisine to life in just a few steps. With its rich, savory sauce and tender tofu, it’s a dish that can be made quickly, yet has an incredible depth of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or making it the main attraction, Dubu Jorim offers versatility and can be customized to suit your taste.
Reiterate the Ease of Making Dubu Jorim
One of the best things about Dubu Jorim is how easy it is to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it accessible to anyone looking to try Korean cooking at home. Even with simple ingredients, this dish can offer a gourmet experience, perfect for any meal.
Now that you have the recipe for Dubu Jorim, it’s time to try it yourself! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media, and tag us with your photos. We’d love to see how your version of this comforting Korean dish turns out.
Have any questions, suggestions, or tips of your own? Feel free to leave a comment below. We love hearing from our readers!
Dubu Jorim
Equipment
- 1 Cutting Board For slicing tofu and prepping vegetables.
- 1 Sharp Knife To finely chop garlic, ginger, and green onions.
- 1 Mixing Bowl For combining ingredients to create the sauce.
- 1 Large Skillet or Shallow Pan To simmer the tofu and sauce evenly.
- 1 Spatula or Tongs For gently flipping tofu without breaking it.
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons To accurately measure sauce ingredients.
- 1 Small Whisk or Fork For mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
- 4 Serving Plate or Bowl For presenting the finished dish beautifully.
- 1 Paper Towels To pat dry the tofu before cooking.
- 1 Optional: Tofu Press To remove excess moisture from the tofu (if using firm tofu).
Ingredients
- Tofu soft or firm, depending on your preference
- Korean chili flakes gochugaru
- Soy sauce the base of the sauce
- Garlic minced
- Ginger minced
- Green onions sliced
- Sesame oil adds richness and fragrance
- Onions sliced
- Carrots julienned
- Mushrooms shiitake or oyster
- Scallions for garnish
- Korean red pepper paste gochujang for added spice
- Mirin adds a slight sweetness
- Sugar balances the salty flavour
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
- Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Slice the green onions and any other vegetables you’re using (such as onions, carrots, or mushrooms).
- Step 2: Make the sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- Optional: 1 tablespoon gochujang (for more spice), 1 tablespoon mirin (for sweetness), and 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance flavours).
- Mix the ingredients well until evenly combined.
- Step 3: Marinate the Tofu
- Place the tofu cubes in a large bowl and pour the sauce over the tofu. Gently toss the tofu to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for deeper flavour).
- Step 4: Simmer the Dubu Jorim
- Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a pot or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated tofu and any vegetables you’re using (onions, carrots, mushrooms). Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve Dubu Jorim hot with steamed rice or as a side dish to a Korean meal.
