Name: Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients: 1 16-ounce block extra firm tofu (vacuum-packed recommended); 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; Pepper to taste; 3 tablespoons gochujang sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons peanut butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1-2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency); Rice (quantity as desired); Cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Green onion, chopped (for garnish); Peanuts, chopped (for garnish); Cucumber or other fresh vegetables (for bowl)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 42 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s bursting with bold, addictive flavors and a delightful mix of textures, this Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat balanced with sweetness, the satisfying crunch of peanuts, and the freshness of herbs. The tofu comes out gloriously sticky and caramelized thanks to the magic of gochujang sauce, making every bite a comforting and exciting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply craving something vibrant and wholesome, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to make and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a baking tray covered with white parchment paper and many small, golden-brown crispy pieces scattered across it. A woman's hand is pouring a thick reddish-brown sauce over the pieces from a jar above, with the sauce dripping directly onto the center of the pieces. The tray edges are slightly worn and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building depth of flavor, texture, and overall balance. From the creamy yet crisp tofu base to the rich, sticky sauce and fresh garnishes, you’ll find everything here works harmoniously to create a memorable meal.

Extra firm tofu (16-ounce block): Provides a sturdy, protein-packed centerpiece that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Avocado oil (1 tablespoon): A neutral oil that helps achieve the perfect crispy texture on the tofu without overpowering the flavors.
Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Adds an irresistible crispiness when baked, giving the tofu that coveted crunch on the outside.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon) and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural tofu flavor and bring out the sauce’s complexity.
Gochujang sauce (3 tablespoons): The star ingredient providing a rich, sticky, sweet, and spicy Korean chili paste flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Brings a toasty, nutty aroma that complements the gochujang beautifully.
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds savory umami notes, balancing the sweetness and heat.
Peanut butter (2 tablespoons): Enriches the sauce with creamy texture and subtle nuttiness, tying in with the toasted peanuts garnish.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the savory depth effortlessly without overpowering the other flavors.
Water (1–2 tablespoons as needed): Adjusts the sauce consistency to get that perfect sticky coating on your tofu.
Rice: Serves as a fluffy, comforting base that soaks up the sticky sauce perfectly.
Fresh cilantro, green onion, and/or peanuts: These garnishes add freshness, crunch, and extra flavor bursts in every bite.
Cucumber or other veggies: Bring a crisp, cooling contrast to the warm, sticky tofu.

How to Make Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to get rid of excess moisture, especially if it’s not the vacuum-packed variety—this makes sure your tofu crisps up nicely. Tear the block into rough chunks, aiming for pieces that will hold their shape but still soak up all that incredible sauce.

Step 2: Season and Bake the Tofu

Place the tofu chunks in a nonstick baking dish or parchment-lined sheet pan. Add the avocado oil, cornstarch, kosher salt, and pepper directly into the pan. Gently shake or toss to coat each piece evenly—this step is key for a crispy outer layer. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15 minutes, then give the tofu a good shake or stir to rotate the pieces for even crisping. Bake for another 10 minutes, watching as the tofu gets beautifully golden.

Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce

While the tofu is baking, combine the gochujang, sesame oil, soy sauce, peanut butter, garlic powder, and water in a jar or small bowl. Shake or whisk until the sauce is smooth and luscious. This sauce will be thick but spreadable—perfect for that sticky finish.

Step 4: Coat the Tofu in Sauce and Finish Baking

Pour just enough sauce over the baked tofu to generously coat each piece. Toss gently to combine, then return the pan to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes to caramelize the sauce around the tofu chunks. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning; the goal is a beautiful, sticky, golden-brown finish that makes your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 5: Final Toss and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven and give everything a fresh drizzle of the remaining sauce, tossing gently once more to disperse all the flavors. Your sticky, spicy, and nutty tofu is ready for plating alongside fragrant rice and any fresh veggies you love.

How to Serve Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe

A white bowl holds a layered dish beginning with a base of fluffy white rice. On the left side, there is a fresh layer of small diced green cucumbers mixed with chopped green onions. The center and right side show several pieces of golden brown fried tofu covered in a thick reddish-brown sauce. The tofu pieces have a slightly crispy texture visible under the sauce. On top, crushed peanuts and more green onions are sprinkled for garnish, with a woman's hand adding a small green garnish at the upper right. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The garnishes in this dish are what take it from delicious to downright irresistible. Fresh cilantro and green onions bring brightness and vivid color, while chopped peanuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sticky tofu. You can’t skip these fresh, crunchy toppings if you want that perfect burst of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This tofu shines when paired with simple steamed rice or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Crisp, cool vegetables like cucumber slices, shredded carrots, or a simple kimchi salad also complement the rich, spicy sauce wonderfully, providing balance and added freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual meal, serve the tofu and rice in a bowl topped with garnishes and a drizzle of extra sauce. If you want to impress guests, try arranging the tofu on a platter with small bowls of toppings and sauces for a fun DIY style dinner. Either way, presenting your Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe with care makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This tofu keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors even deepen after resting, making your leftovers just as tasty as the first day!

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option. Store the tofu without the rice and garnishes in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the tofu.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the tofu in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through and sticky again. Avoid microwaving, which can make it soggy. Adding a quick splash of water or extra sauce while reheating helps revive that beautiful glaze.

FAQs

Can I use regular tofu instead of extra firm?

Extra firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps well. Regular tofu has more water content and may become mushy when baked, so it’s not recommended here.

What if I don’t have gochujang sauce?

Gochujang is central to this dish’s flavor, but if you can’t find it, you can try mixing a bit of miso paste, chili paste, and honey or maple syrup as a rough substitute. The flavor won’t be quite the same but still tasty.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To keep it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitution. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this spicy or mild?

The beauty of the Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe is how easy it is to adjust the heat. Add more or less gochujang depending on your spice tolerance, or even mix in a little honey to tone down the heat.

What herbs work best as garnishes?

Cilantro and green onions are classic and give vibrant pops of color and flavor. You can also experiment with fresh mint or Thai basil for a different herbal twist.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Gochujang Tofu with Peanuts and Herbs Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute go-tos when I want something both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends when you crave that sticky, spicy, and nutty combination everyone loves. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite tofu dish!