Korean Inspired Spicy Beef and Tofu Stir-Fry with Caramelized Onions
Imagine a vibrant, sizzling dish that immediately awakens your senses with its fiery hue and an intoxicating aroma of gochujang and sesame. This stir-fry masterfully blends tender, thinly sliced beef, seared to perfection, with crispy-edged tofu cubes that offer a delightful textural contrast. The star of the show, however, might just be the deeply caramelized onions, their inherent sweetness amplifying the savory depth of the beef and cutting through the spicy kick. Each mouthful is a symphony of flavors, from the initial heat to the lingering umami, making it an unforgettable culinary journey that transports you straight to a bustling Korean street food market.
Ingredients
- •1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- •14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- •2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- •2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- •2 tbsp soy sauce
- •1 tbsp sesame oil
- •1 tbsp rice vinegar
- •1 tbsp brown sugar
- •3 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 inch ginger, grated
- •2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- •Optional: 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- •Optional: 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Dietary Info
Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and sear until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
- 3
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same wok. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and tender, about 10-12 minutes. This slow cooking brings out their incredible sweetness.
- 4
Increase heat to high. Add the marinated beef to the wok, spreading it out in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes without stirring to achieve a good crust, then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- 5
Return the seared tofu to the wok with the beef and caramelized onions. Toss gently to combine everything, ensuring the tofu is coated in the flavorful sauce.
- 6
Remove from heat and serve immediately, optionally garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice.
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