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Authentic Mapo Tofu

Savory Authentic Mapo Tofu Perfect for Spicy Food Lovers

Experience the unforgettable flavors of Authentic Mapo Tofu, a fiery Sichuan dish perfect for spice lovers.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Sichuan
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Doubanjiang (spicy fermented bean paste) Adjust to taste for desired heat level
  • 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine Can substitute with dry sherry
  • 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce Brings saltiness and umami
  • 1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder Introduces warm complexity
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Adjust according to taste
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Ground Pork (or chicken, or turkey) Swap with ground beef or omit for a vegetarian option
For the Aromatics
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Use fresh ginger for the best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Sichuan Peppercorns Fresh ones yield the best flavor
  • 2 stalks Green Onions For garnishing
For the Tofu
  • 14 ounces Firm or Medium Firm Tofu Soft tofu can be used for a delicate feel
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Peanut Oil (or vegetable oil) Any light cooking oil works as a substitute
  • 1 cup Chicken Stock (or water) Vegetable broth for vegan version
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Optional thickener
For the Heat
  • 2 tablespoons Homemade Chili Oil Store-bought works well too

Equipment

  • nonstick skillet
  • Small bowl
  • Medium Bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium bowl, combine your ground pork with Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and minced ginger. Mix well to ensure the meat is fully coated with the marinade. Let this sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Heat peanut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. Add Sichuan peppercorns, frying them until dark brown and fragrant.
  4. Add the marinated ground pork and Doubanjiang to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is cooked through.
  5. Gently place tofu cubes on top of the meat. Pour in chicken stock, chili oil, five-spice powder, and sugar. Cover and let it cook for 8-10 minutes.
  6. After braising, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until glossy.
  7. Ladle the Mapo Tofu into bowls, garnishing with Sichuan peppercorns and chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, allow the ground pork to marinate for at least 10 minutes before cooking. Adjust spices to personal preference.

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