The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious and Spicy Mapo Tofu

Learn the art of making Mapo Tofu with our comprehensive recipe and serving suggestions.

Mapo Tofu is a classic Chinese dish originating from the Sichuan province in China. The dish is a popular staple in Chinese cuisine and is known for its spicy and savory flavor. The dish is made from tofu, ground pork, and a sauce made from doubanjiang (spicy bean paste), Sichuan peppercorns, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings. In this recipe, we will guide you step by step through the process of making the best Mapo Tofu at home.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz. firm tofu
• 1/2 lb. ground pork
• 1 tablespoon doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 scallion, chopped

Substitutions:

• If you can’t find doubanjiang, you can use gochujang or chili paste.
• Shaoxing wine can be substituted with dry sherry or Japanese sake.

Preparation:

1. Drain the tofu and cut into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the doubanjiang, Sichuan peppercorns, ginger, and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Add the tofu to the pan and gently stir until the tofu is coated in the sauce.
7. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and stir until the sauce has thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Sprinkle with chopped scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables.
• Pair with a crisp and refreshing beer to balance out the spiciness of the dish.
• For a non-spicy version, reduce the amount of doubanjiang or omit it entirely.

Mapo Tofu is a delicious and spicy dish that is perfect for those who love bold flavors. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a great dish to make at home. Whether you are a fan of Chinese cuisine or just looking for a new recipe to try, we encourage you to give this classic dish a try. We hope that you enjoy making and eating this delicious and spicy Mapo Tofu recipe!