Chinese-Inspired Mapo Tofu Recipe

[wakabalo]

你好, food enthusiasts! Experience the bold and spicy flavors of China with this Chinese-Inspired Mapo Tofu. This fusion dish features soft cubes of tofu simmered in a savory and aromatic sauce infused with ground pork, Sichuan peppercorns, chili bean paste, and fermented black beans. Serve this hearty and comforting dish over steamed rice for an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine at home. Let's dive in and elevate your dinner table with this delicious fusion creation!

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 ounces) firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
• 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu:
   • Drain the firm tofu and cut it into small cubes. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Brown the Pork:
   • Add ground pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the pork is browned and cooked through.
4. Add Chili Bean Paste and Black Beans:
   • Stir in chili bean paste (doubanjiang) and chopped fermented black beans. Cook for another minute to release their flavors.
5. Season and Simmer:
   • Sprinkle ground Sichuan peppercorns over the pork mixture. Stir in soy sauce and Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry). Pour chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to combine.
   • Gently add the cubed tofu to the skillet, being careful not to break them. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
   • Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the Mapo Tofu with sliced green onions.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the Chinese-inspired Mapo Tofu hot, over steamed rice.
9. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of this Chinese-inspired Mapo Tofu, a fusion of tender tofu in a savory and aromatic sauce that will transport you to the bustling streets of China with every bite! 享受你的食物! (Xiǎngshòu nǐ de shíwù! - Enjoy your meal!)

This Mapo Tofu is perfect for a flavorful and satisfying dinner. With its bold flavors and hearty texture, this fusion creation is sure to become a favorite in your home.

 

[iwantbulalo🍖]

Can you use ground turkey instead of pork? Trying to cut back on red meat lately.

 

[yourfavoritef1girlie]

This looks amazing! I love Mapo Tofu but have never tried making it at home. Your recipe seems so authentic and straightforward. Can't wait to give it a shot this weekend! Thanks for sharing!

 

[Ruth_]

Bringing the flavors of China to your table! Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this tantalizing Chinese-inspired Mapo Tofu recipe.

 

[MylaPeek]

Wow, your Chinese-inspired Mapo Tofu recipe looks incredible! Love how you've captured that authentic flavor with the perfect balance of spice and savory goodness. Can't wait to give this a try at home! Thanks for sharing your culinary skills with us.