Easy Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Perfect Comfort Food for Spicy Lovers

The classic mapo tofu recipe is flavorful, spicy, and easy to make at home. This version is simple enough for beginners but still tastes rich and authentic.

Ingredients:

- 400g soft tofu (silken or medium-firm)

- 200g ground pork or beef

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns

- 2 tablespoons doubanjiang (spicy fermented bean paste)

- 1 tablespoon douchi (fermented black beans), optional

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

- 1 cup chicken stock or water

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

- 2 green onions, chopped

- Chili oil (optional, to taste)

Instructions:

1. Cut the tofu into cubes and boil them gently in salted water for 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. In a pan, toast Sichuan peppercorns for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove and crush them lightly. Set aside.

3. In the same pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork or beef. Cook until browned.

4. Add doubanjiang and stir-fry for 30 seconds. If using douchi, add it now along with garlic and ginger. Stir for another 30 seconds.

5. Pour in the chicken stock, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well.

6. Gently add the tofu cubes into the sauce. Let them simmer for 5–7 minutes so they can soak up the flavor.

7. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.

8. Sprinkle the crushed Sichuan peppercorns and green onions on top. Add chili oil if desired.

9. Serve your mapo tofu hot with rice.

Want to take your dish to the next level? These tips will help you make the best version of this spicy tofu favorite.

1. Use soft tofu: Silken or medium-firm tofu gives the dish a creamy texture and soaks up the sauce better. It helps create a smooth mouthfeel that contrasts nicely with the bold flavors of the dish.

2. Choose good doubanjiang: This spicy fermented bean paste provides the base flavor of the dish. Authentic Sichuan brands usually offer a deeper, more complex flavor that makes a big difference.

3. Don’t skip Sichuan peppercorns: These tiny peppercorns add a special numbing sensation that defines Sichuan cuisine. Toasting them enhances their citrusy aroma and makes the dish more aromatic and exciting.

4. Simmer the tofu gently: Tofu is delicate and can easily break apart. Let it simmer quietly in the sauce so it can soak up the flavor without losing its shape or texture.

5. Add chili oil last: Adding chili oil at the end keeps its color bright and flavor strong. It gives the dish an extra layer of spiciness and a nice glossy finish.

6. Try ground beef or pork: Both types of meat give the dish a savory depth. Pork offers a slightly sweeter flavor, while beef brings a richer and more robust taste.

7. Balance the flavors: Taste the sauce and adjust as needed. A good mapo tofu should have a nice balance of salty, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors to create a well-rounded experience.

Mapo tofu is a flavorful main dish, but it becomes even better with the right side dishes. Here are some simple ideas to try.

1. Steamed white rice: The most traditional pairing. It balances the spice and soaks up the tasty sauce.

2. Stir-fried vegetables: Bok choy, spinach, or broccoli work great to add freshness and crunch.

3. Egg drop soup: A light and simple soup that cools your palate between bites of spicy tofu.

4. Chinese cucumber salad: A cold and refreshing side dish to help balance the heat.

5. Pickled vegetables: These offer a sour contrast to the spicy and rich mapo tofu.

6. Spring rolls: A crispy starter or side that adds texture to your meal.

7. Cold noodles: Great in warmer weather, they pair nicely with the heat of the tofu.

8. Jasmine tea: A soothing drink that complements the spices and refreshes your taste buds.

Enjoy your homemade mapo tofu with these tasty sides for a satisfying and complete meal!