Mapo Tofu is a traditional Sichuan dish, known for its spicy and fragrant flavor.
The recipe combines soft cubes of silky tofu with ground meat, fermented bean paste, and Chinese spices, creating a delicious and comforting mixture.
Making this dish at home is simple and quick, perfect for those who enjoy intense and authentic flavors.
Served with white rice, Mapo Tofu becomes a true flavor experience with every bite. The key lies in using fresh ingredients and a generous amount of Sichuan pepper for that aromatic touch that sets this culinary gem apart.
Mapo Tofu
Ingredients
680 grams of Silky tofu cubes
115 grams of Ground beef
2 tablespoons of Sichuan pepper
¼ cup of Vegetable oil
1 teaspoon of Cornstarch
2 teaspoons of Water
3 Minced garlic cloves
1 tablespoon of Minced ginger
2 tablespoons of Bean paste
2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine
1 tablespoon of Soy sauce
¼ cup of Chicken broth
¼ cup of Roasted chili oil
¼ cup of Chopped scallion
Preparation
Step 1 : Start by heating half of the Sichuan pepper in a large wok over high heat until it slightly smokes.
Step 2 : Once that happens, grind it in a mortar until you get a fine powder and set aside.
Step 3 : Next, add the remaining Sichuan pepper and vegetable oil to the wok.
Step 4 : Cook over medium-high heat until the oil sizzles slightly, then remove the peppercorns with a slotted spoon, leaving only the fragrant oil in the wok.
Step 5 : In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth.
Step 6 : Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the tofu for about one minute.
Step 7 : Be careful to drain it gently so it doesn't break apart and set aside.
Step 8 : Return to the wok and heat the oil over high heat until it smokes.
Step 9 : Add the ground meat and cook, stirring, for one minute.
Step 10 : Then add the garlic and ginger, cooking for 15 seconds or until they release their characteristic aroma.
Step 11 : Add the bean paste, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and broth.
Step 12 : Bring the mixture to a boil and then add the cornstarch mixture, cooking for an additional 30 seconds or until the sauce thickens.
Step 13 : Carefully and with gentle movements, add the tofu cubes to the wok to prevent breaking and mix with the sauce.
Step 14 : Finish by adding the chili oil and half of the scallion, cooking everything together over low heat for an extra 30 seconds.
Step 15 : To serve, place the dish in a bowl and sprinkle with the remaining scallion and ground Sichuan pepper.
Step 16 : This dish is ideally accompanied by white rice to complete this delicious and aromatic meal.













