Mabo Tofu, also known as Mapo Tofu, is a popular Chinese dish that is loved for its spicy and savory flavors. This recipe features soft tofu simmered in a flavorful sauce with ground meat, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. It's a comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 block of silken tofu
- 1/2 lb ground pork or beef
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili bean paste
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions
- Cut the tofu into small cubes and set aside.
- Heat some oil in a pan and sauté the garlic, ginger, and green onions until fragrant.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
- Stir in the soy sauce, chili bean paste, and chicken broth.
- Add the tofu cubes and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Season with sugar and Sichuan peppercorns.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Serve the Mabo Tofu hot over rice.
Interesting Facts
Mabo Tofu is a popular dish in both China and Japan, with variations in the level of spiciness.
Traditionally, Mabo Tofu is made with doubanjiang, a fermented chili bean paste that adds depth of flavor.
The name 'Mapo' comes from the pockmarked face of the old woman who created this dish in Chengdu, China.