Description
Authentic Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender tofu cubes in a spicy, numbing, and flavorful sauce made with Doubanjiang, Sichuan peppercorns, and a savory meat base. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of heat, umami, and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Marinating:
- 4 oz ground pork (or chicken, or turkey)
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
For Braising:
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
- 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns (adjust to 1-3 teaspoons based on preference)
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 3 tablespoons Doubanjiang (or 2 tablespoons for less spicy/salty)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 block firm or medium firm tofu, cut into 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) squares
- 1 cup chicken stock (or water)
- 2 teaspoons homemade chili oil
- 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or to taste)
Instructions
- Marinate the ground meat with Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and minced ginger for 10–15 minutes.
- Heat peanut oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add Sichuan peppercorns and stir-fry briefly until fragrant.
- Add Doubanjiang and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Add the marinated meat and cook until browned.
- Add tofu cubes carefully and pour in chicken stock (or water). Gently stir to coat tofu with sauce.
- Add homemade chili oil, five-spice powder, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- If desired, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water and stir into the pan to thicken the sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
- Adjust Doubanjiang and chili oil to control the spiciness.
- Be gentle when stirring tofu to avoid breaking the cubes.
- Use fresh Sichuan peppercorns for the best numbing flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg