What is Mapo Tofu?

Mapo Tofu is a classic Chinese dish that combines the silky texture of tofu with the bold flavors of minced meat, typically pork or beef. This dish originates from the Sichuan province, renowned for its spicy and fragrant cuisine. Generally, tender tofu is preferred as it complements the sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients You Will Need

To prepare homemade Mapo Tofu, the following ingredients are essential:

• Tender tofu, cut into small cubes
• Minced pork or beef (depending on your preference)
• Sichuan Doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
• Chopped green onions, ginger, and garlic
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Ground Sichuan pepper and soy sauce
• Water, sugar, and cornstarch mixed with water for thickening

Steps to Cook Mapo Tofu

Start by heating oil in a pan, then sauté the minced meat until it turns golden brown. Add Sichuan Doubanjiang to the pan, stirring until a fragrant aroma emerges. Incorporate the garlic, ginger, and green onions, allowing them to meld together.

Next, pour in a bit of water followed by ground pepper and sugar, letting the mixture simmer for about five minutes. Gently add the tofu cubes, increase the heat to a boil, then reduce it to medium-low, covering the pan for around eight minutes.

Finally, drizzle the cornstarch mixture to thicken, stirring briefly until the sauce is silky. Garnish with extra ground pepper and finely chopped green onions before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, served over steamed rice, combining the flavors of spicy, numbing, and umami in every bite!