Authentic Mapo Tofu – A Spicy Sichuan Delight

Mapo Tofu is one of China’s most beloved Sichuan dishes, known for its bold flavors and irresistible combination of soft tofu, ground meat, and a fiery, numbing sauce. With its rich history dating back over a century, this dish has become a favorite among food lovers worldwide. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate authentic Chinese flavors at home, this easy Mapo Tofu recipe will transport your taste buds straight to Sichuan.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Authentic Flavor – The combination of fermented black beans, Sichuan peppercorns, and spicy doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste) gives this dish its signature taste.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your preference while keeping the traditional Sichuan essence.

How to Make Authentic Mapo Tofu

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 oz) soft tofu, cut into cubes

• 1/2 lb ground pork or beef

• 2 tbsp doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste)

• 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch ginger, minced

• 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

• 2 tbsp neutral oil

• 2 stalks green onions, chopped

• 1 tsp sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the tofu into bite-sized cubes and set aside. Mince garlic and ginger, and mash the black beans.

2. Toast the Sichuan Peppercorns: Dry-toast the peppercorns in a pan until fragrant, then grind them into powder.

3. Cook the Meat: Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned.

4. Build the Sauce: Add doubanjiang, black beans, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for a minute until aromatic.

5. Simmer the Tofu: Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Gently add tofu cubes and simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce thicken. Adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Final Touches: Sprinkle ground Sichuan pepper and chopped green onions before serving.

Serving Suggestion

Mapo Tofu is best enjoyed with steamed white rice, which balances the intense flavors of the sauce. For an extra kick, serve with pickled vegetables or a drizzle of chili oil.