Dubu Jorim (Braised Tofu)

Ingredients

Firm tofu

1 block (about 14 ounces), cut into bite-sized cubes

Sesame oil

2 tablespoons

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Ginger

1 tablespoon, grated

Green onions

3, chopped (reserve some for garnish)

Soy sauce

1/4 cup

Water

1/4 cup

Sugar

1 tablespoon

Red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

Toasted sesame seeds

1 tablespoon (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes.
2. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
3. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the green onions have softened.
5. Gently add the tofu cubes to the skillet, stirring carefully to coat them with the aromatic mixture without breaking them.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
7. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the tofu in the skillet. Carefully toss to ensure the tofu is evenly coated.
8. Cover the skillet and let the tofu simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the tofu is heated through.
9. Before serving, sprinkle the dish with toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, adjusting the heat level to your preference.
10. Serve hot as a main dish or as a side dish alongside steamed rice, garnished with additional chopped green onions.