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Authentic Mapo Tofu

Spice Up Your Dinner with Authentic Mapo Tofu Delight

Try this Authentic Mapo Tofu for a quick and delicious dive into Sichuan cuisine with bold flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Sichuan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Pork Substitute with ground chicken or omit for vegan
  • 3 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine Can replace with dry sherry
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce Consider low-sodium versions
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Fresh preferred
  • 1 tablespoon Sichuan Peppercorns Can reduce for milder taste
  • 2 tablespoons Doubanjiang Adjust based on desired spice level
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Adjust to taste
For the Tofu
  • 14 ounces Firm/Medium Firm Tofu Silken tofu can be used but is more delicate
  • 1 cup Chicken Stock Vegetable stock for a vegan version
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onion Chop finely for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Homemade Chili Oil Store-bought can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder Can be omitted if unavailable

Equipment

  • nonstick skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Mapo Tofu
  1. Prepare the marinade by combining ground pork, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and minced ginger. Mix until evenly coated and marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. Make the cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet and fry Sichuan peppercorns until dark brown and fragrant. Remove and reserve the spiced oil.
  4. Add marinated ground pork and Doubanjiang to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until well-cooked.
  5. Place cubed tofu over the pork, pour in chicken stock, additional chili oil, five-spice powder, and sugar. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice.

Notes

For the best Mapo Tofu, use firm or medium-firm tofu and adjust spice to your preference. Garnish with fresh ingredients for an appealing presentation.