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Mapo Tofu

Savory Mapo Tofu: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish

Mapo Tofu is a comforting dish featuring tender tofu in a spicy sauce, capturing the essence of Sichuan cuisine.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Sichuan
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Can use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
  • 2 tbsp Shaoxing Wine Dry sherry can be used if Shaoxing wine is unavailable.
  • 2 tbsp Light Soy Sauce Light soy sauce is preferred for less intrusive taste.
  • 1 tbsp Minced Ginger Fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger can also be used in a pinch.
  • 1 tbsp Sichuan Peppercorns Adjust quantity according to freshness; fresher peppercorns require less.
  • 2 tbsp Doubanjiang (Sichuan Douban Sauce) Can reduce amount if less heat is desired.
  • 2 tbsp Homemade Chili Oil Alternatively, find a high-quality store-bought chili oil.
  • 1 tsp Five-Spice Powder Can adjust or omit based on personal taste preferences.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Adjust to taste.
For the Tofu & Garnish
  • 14 oz Firm or Medium Firm Tofu Soft tofu can be used but requires more careful handling.
  • 2 tbsp Peanut Oil or Vegetable Oil
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Use chopped for cooking and for fresh garnish before serving.
For the Broth
  • 1 cup Chicken Stock (or Water) Water can be a substitute for a lighter flavor.

Equipment

  • nonstick skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mapo Tofu
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ground pork, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, and minced ginger. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate while you prepare the other ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld for at least 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together equal parts cornstarch and water until smooth. Set this mixture aside.
  3. In a nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add Sichuan peppercorns and fry until they turn dark brown and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add the marinated ground pork to the skillet with the infused oil, cooking over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Gently layer the cubed tofu over the cooked ground meat in the skillet. Pour in chili oil, chicken stock, five-spice powder, and sugar, ensuring everything is well distributed. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes.
  6. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet, gently stirring to combine. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
  7. Transfer the finished Mapo Tofu to a serving bowl, garnishing with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of ground Sichuan peppercorns.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 22gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze Mapo Tofu in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months.

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