A traditional Sichuan dish,Mapo Tofu is renowned for its strong flavors and burst of heat. Here's a classic Mapo Tofu recipe
Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. Here's a traditional recipe for Mapo Tofu:
Ingredients:
- 400g firm tofu, cut into cubes
- 200g ground pork
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)
- 1 tablespoon chili bean paste (optional, for extra spice)
- 2 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the chopped green onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the ground pork to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in the doubanjiang and chili bean paste (if using), and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the cubed tofu to the pan, along with the ground Sichuan peppercorns. Gently stir to combine, being careful not to break the tofu cubes.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the tofu to absorb the sauce.
6. Stir in the soy sauce and sugar, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
7. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
8. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions and cilantro over the top for garnish.
9. Serve the Mapo Tofu hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Enjoy the bold flavors and spicy kick of this classic Sichuan dish! Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by adding more or less chili bean paste.
Enjoy the bold flavors and spicy kick of this classic Sichuan dish! Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by adding more or less chili bean paste.
