Spicy Korean Tofu (Kkanpung Dubu) recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
RecipesCochaSpicy Korean Tofu (Kkanpung Dubu)

Spicy Korean Tofu (kkanpung Dubu) Recipe

inspired by

@cocha

Nov 08 2025

30m

Serves 4

Jump to recipe ↓

Recipe information

Make Spicy Korean Tofu (kkanpung Dubu) in just 30m. Tofu Stir Fried with Chilies, Garlic, Green Onion, House Made Vegan Kimchi, Spicy Maple Sauce, Sesame Seeds

Get This Recipe In Your Inbox

Just share your email, and we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus, enjoy weekly servings of cooking inspiration as a bonus!

Pin Recipe

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others!

Ingredients

General

Spicy Maple Sauce

Preparation

House Made Vegan Kimchi

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Chop 1 small Napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Rinse thoroughly and place in a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt and massage the cabbage to draw out moisture. Let sit for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Then rinse well under cold water and drain.

2. Make the Kimchi Paste

In a blender, combine 2 tablespoons of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons of water. Blend until a smooth paste forms.

3. Combine and Ferment

Mix the paste with the drained cabbage until evenly coated. Add 1/4 cup julienned carrots, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, and mix well. Pack tightly into a clean jar, pressing down to remove air pockets. Leave some headspace for expansion. Seal and let ferment at room temperature for 1–2 days, then refrigerate for at least another day before use.

Spicy Maple Sauce

4. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste), 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon water. Set aside for stir-frying.

Spicy Korean Tofu (Kkanpung Dubu)

5. Prepare and Cook Tofu

Drain a 14-ounce block of extra-firm tofu and press to remove excess water (15–30 minutes). Cut into 1-inch cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add tofu pieces and cook until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 10–12 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

6. Sauté Aromatics and Stir Fry

In the same skillet, add 1 teaspoon more oil if needed. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, 1–2 chopped red chilies (adjust to heat preference), and 2 chopped green onions. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

7. Combine Tofu and Sauce

Add the crispy tofu back into the pan with the aromatics. Pour in the prepared Spicy Maple Sauce and toss everything together to coat evenly. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to the tofu.

8. Finish and Serve

Stir in 1/2 cup of the house made vegan kimchi. Cook for 1 more minute to warm through. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a side dish.

Local Coupons

No local coupons found for this recipe's ingredients.