Chinese Mapo Tofu

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Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Spicy, numbing, and savory tofu cubes in a rich, aromatic chili bean sauce
Chinese Mapo Tofu recipe image

This classic Sichuan dish is a masterclass in bold flavors and comforting textures. Soft cubes of silky tofu are gently simmered in a vibrant, spicy sauce made from fermented black beans, doubanjiang (chili bean paste), and aromatic spices. The heat from the dried chilies and the unique numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns create a complex, addictive profile that coats the tender tofu perfectly. It&# 226;€™s a humble yet deeply satisfying meal that feels luxurious without being fussy. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up every drop of the flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just love rich umami flavors, this Mapo Tofu delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home with minimal effort.

Chinese Mapo Tofu recipe image
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Chinese Mapo Tofu

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 71.9

Description

This classic Sichuan dish is a masterclass in bold flavors and comforting textures. Soft cubes of silky tofu are gently simmered in a vibrant, spicy sauce made from fermented black beans, doubanjiang (chili bean paste), and aromatic spices. The heat from the dried chilies and the unique numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns create a complex, addictive profile that coats the tender tofu perfectly. It&# 226;€™s a humble yet deeply satisfying meal that feels luxurious without being fussy. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up every drop of the flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just love rich umami flavors, this Mapo Tofu delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground pork (if using non-vegan version) or additional aromatics like minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry until fragrant and browned.
  3. Stir in the Black Bean Garlic Sauce and Red Chili Paste with Garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until the oil turns red and aromatic.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth or water to create the sauce base.
  5. Gently slide the cubed tofu into the wok, being careful not to break the pieces.
  6. Simmer the tofu in the sauce for 5-8 minutes, gently nudging the pan to coat the tofu without stirring vigorously.
  7. Thicken the sauce slightly with a cornstarch slurry if desired, then sprinkle with chopped green onions.
  8. Serve immediately over hot steamed white rice.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 71.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7.5g12%
Saturated Fat 1.1g6%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.6mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 1.2g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 0.2g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: mapo tofu, sichuan, spicy, tofu, chinese, vegan, dinner, easy, spicy tofu, asian cuisine, quick meal, vegetarian, soybean, garlic, ginger, chili paste, black bean, comfort food, stir fry, numbing spice
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