Name: Mapo Tofu: 7 Reasons This Spicy Dish Will Delight You
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 tbsp Douban Jiang (Spicy fermented chili bean paste); 3 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped); 1 tbsp Ginger (Finely chopped); 1 tsp Chili Powder (Or to taste); 1 cup Chicken Stock; 1 tbsp Soy Sauce; 1 tsp Dark Soy Sauce; 1 tsp Sugar; 1 tsp Vinegar; 2 tsp Cornflour (Mixed with 2 tsp water); 1 tsp Sesame Oil; 1 tbsp Sichuan Peppercorns (Ground); 380 g Soft Tofu; 100 g Pork Mince; 2 tbsp Spring Onion/Scallions (Finely sliced); 1 serving Steamed Rice (To soak up the flavors)

Jump to Recipe

Mapo Tofu is a beloved Chinese spicy tofu dish known for its rich flavors and comforting textures. This Spicy Mapo Tofu combines tender pork mince and creamy tofu in a fragrant, spicy sauce, making it an irresistible comfort meal. With its origins in Sichuan cuisine, Mapo Tofu has earned a reputation for its bold flavors and delightful aroma, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Whether you are a tofu lover or new to this ingredient, this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Mapo Tofu

This dish is not just about flavor; it offers numerous benefits. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare at home, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Second, the combination of soft tofu with minced meat creates a satisfying texture that is hard to resist. Third, it’s a gluten-free option, suitable for various diets. Moreover, with just a few ingredients, you can whip up an authentic Mapo Tofu recipe that rivals any restaurant version. The spiciness can be adjusted to your preference, allowing personal customization. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making every bite a culinary delight. Finally, it’s a great way to introduce Sichuan flavors to your family and friends.

Ingredients for Mapo Tofu

Gather these items:

1 tbsp Douban Jiang (Spicy fermented chili bean paste)
3 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped)
1 tbsp Ginger (Finely chopped)
1 tsp Chili Powder (Or to taste)
1 cup Chicken Stock
1 tbsp Soy Sauce
1 tsp Dark Soy Sauce
1 tsp Sugar
1 tsp Vinegar
2 tsp Cornflour (Mixed with 2 tsp water)
1 tsp Sesame Oil
1 tbsp Sichuan Peppercorns (Ground)
380 g Soft Tofu
100 g Pork Mince
2 tbsp Spring Onion/Scallions (Finely sliced)
1 serving Steamed Rice (To soak up the flavors)

How to Make Mapo Tofu Step-by-Step

Step 1: Toast the Sichuan peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Grind them into a fine powder with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
Step 2: Gently drain the soft tofu and cut it into cubes. Simmer in salted water for 2-3 minutes until slightly firm but still tender.
Step 3: In a hot wok, heat 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the pork mince and cook until browned, approximately 4-5 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of douban jiang and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the finely chopped garlic, ginger, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder into the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, along with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dark soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce for about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in the cornflour mixed with 2 teaspoons of water and sprinkle in the ground Sichuan peppercorns. Adjust the seasoning to taste for balance.
Step 7: Carefully add the drained tofu to the wok, gently tossing to coat it with the sauce without breaking it apart. Drizzle in 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for that finishing touch.
Step 8: Serve the Mapo Tofu in a bowl, garnished with finely sliced spring onions, alongside freshly steamed rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Mapo Tofu

Keep these in mind:

Choosing soft tofu is crucial for the right texture in your Mapo Tofu.
For a vegan Mapo Tofu, substitute pork with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.
Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice tolerance.
Use a wok if possible, as it ensures even cooking and better flavors.
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Mapo Tofu: 7 Reasons This Spicy Dish Will Delight You - Mapo Tofu - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is delicious when served over steamed rice to soak up the spicy sauce. You can also pair it with stir-fried greens for a complete meal. For a unique twist, serve it with homemade scallion pancakes or bao buns for a delightful fusion experience.

How to Store and Reheat Mapo Tofu

To store leftover Mapo Tofu, let it cool to room temperature and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently in a pan to maintain the tofu’s texture. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mapo Tofu

What’s the secret to perfect Mapo Tofu?

The secret lies in using quality douban jiang and adjusting spice levels to your taste. Balancing the flavors of the soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar is also crucial for a well-rounded dish.

Can I make Mapo Tofu ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Mapo Tofu ahead of time. Just reheat it on medium heat before serving to ensure the flavors remain vibrant.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mapo Tofu?

Avoid overcooking the tofu; it should be tender but not mushy. Also, ensure to season the dish well, as the right balance of flavors makes all the difference.

Variations of Mapo Tofu You Can Try

There are many variations to enjoy. For a vegetarian version, swap the pork with mushrooms or lentils. You can experiment with other proteins like chicken or beef. For a spicy Sichuan Mapo Tofu, increase the amount of chili powder and add red chili flakes for extra heat.

For more information on Sichuan cuisine, check out this article. If you’re interested in more tofu recipes, visit this page. You can also learn about the health benefits of tofu at this resource.