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Sichuan Mapo Tofu
Sichuan Mapo Tofu is a beloved dish from the spicy heart of China's Sichuan province, known for its bold flavors and tantalizing heat. This dish features silky soft tofu nestled in a savory, spicy sauce made of ground pork, fragrant ginger, and a unique blend of Sichuan peppercorns that give it a numbing kick. Perfectly paired with steamed rice, Mapo Tofu is a comforting yet invigorating meal that brings warmth and zest to your dining table. Traditionally, this dish is enjoyed by many families and has a rich history dating back to the late Qing Dynasty, showcasing the culinary artistry of Sichuan cuisine.
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons
- Garlic
- 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger
- 1 tablespoon, minced
- Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon, crushed
- Ground pork
- 8 ounces
- Chili bean paste
- 2 tablespoons
- Soft tofu
- 14 ounces, cubed
- Chicken broth
- 1 cup
- Soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons
- Cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon
- Green onions
- 2, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt
- to taste
Instructions
- In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic, ginger, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the ground pork to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chili bean paste and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Gently fold in the cubed soft tofu, being careful not to break it apart.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour this into the pan and stir gently to thicken the sauce.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Garnish generously with chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice to absorb the delicious sauce.
Tips
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground pork with crumbled tempeh or additional mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili bean paste or add fresh sliced chilies.
- To enhance the numbing sensation, consider adding more Sichuan peppercorns or using a homemade chili oil.
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 Dish Type: Main Course Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Calories: 320 Fat: 20g Carbs: 8g Protein: 22g Sodium: 850mg Sugar: 1g
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