19 Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
Mapo tofu is a popular Chinese dish known for its spicy and flavorful taste. It originated from Sichuan province and has become a staple in Chinese cuisine. The dish is made with soft tofu, minced meat, and a spicy sauce that is rich in Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. It is commonly served with rice and is a favorite among both locals and foreigners. If you want to learn how to make an authentic Chinese mapo tofu, then look no further. This article will guide you through a professional and well-organized recipe that will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Onions, Mushrooms, Green Onions, Garlic
If you're looking for a meatless twist on the classic Chinese dish, MaPo Tofu, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Made with soft tofu, Szechuan peppercorns, and a spicy bean paste, this vegetarian version is full of bold flavors and packed with protein. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a satisfying and healthy meal.
2of 20
Easy to Make Spicy Chinese Mapo Tofu
Main Ingredients: Medium Tofu, Ground Pork, Sugar, Ginger, Sake, Lee Kum
Mapo Tofu is a beloved Chinese dish known for its spicy and savory flavors. With this easy recipe, you can recreate this popular dish in the comfort of your own home. Using ground pork, tofu, and a spicy bean paste, this dish is full of heat and umami flavors. It's the perfect dish for those who love a little kick in their meals.
3of 20
Mapo Tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Ground Pork, Green Onions, Fermented Black Beans
Mapo Tofu, also known as "pockmarked grandma's tofu," is a traditional Chinese dish that originated in the Sichuan province. It's a spicy and flavorful dish made with soft tofu, ground pork, and a spicy bean paste. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish makes it a favorite among many Chinese food lovers.
Egg drop soup is a popular Chinese soup that is simple yet comforting. Made with chicken broth, eggs, and cornstarch, this soup is easy to make and can be customized with your choice of vegetables and protein. It's the perfect starter dish for any Chinese meal or a light lunch option.
5of 20
Vegan mapo tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Chestnut Mushrooms, Enoki Mushrooms, Spring
For those who follow a plant-based diet, this vegan mapo tofu recipe is a must-try. Made with tofu, mushrooms, and a spicy bean paste, this dish is full of flavor and protein. It's a great option for those who want to enjoy the spicy and savory flavors of mapo tofu without any meat.
6of 20
Authentic Mapo Tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Garlic, Ginger, Oil, Bean Paste, Fermented Black
For an authentic taste of mapo tofu, this recipe is the way to go. Made with traditional Chinese ingredients such as doubanjiang (spicy bean paste), Szechuan peppercorns, and fermented black beans, this version stays true to its roots. The result is a dish bursting with bold flavors and a satisfying level of heat.
7of 20
Sichuan Mapo Tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Ground Beef, Garlic, Fermented Black Beans
Sichuan mapo tofu is a regional variation of the classic dish that originated in the Sichuan province of China. This version is known for its intense spiciness and use of Szechuan peppercorns, which give the dish a numbing sensation. If you're a fan of spicy food, this is a must-try recipe.
8of 20
Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐)
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Pork Mince, Minced Ginger, Minced Garlic
If you've ever been to a Chinese restaurant, chances are you've seen mapo tofu on the menu. This popular dish is made with soft tofu, ground pork, and a spicy bean paste, and it's often served with steamed rice. The name "mapo" comes from the pockmarks on the face of the woman who created this dish, giving it its unique name.
9of 20
Mapo Tofu (Chinese Takeout)
Main Ingredients: Medium Tofu, Ground Pork, Sugar, Ginger Paste, Sake
If you're craving the flavors of mapo tofu from your favorite Chinese takeout spot, this recipe is for you. Made with traditional ingredients like doubanjiang and Szechuan peppercorns, this dish tastes just like the one you would order at a restaurant. Plus, it's quick and easy to make at home.
10of 20
Mapo Tofu With Crispy Chinese Sausage
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Fish Sauce, Fermented Black Beans, Chile
To add a unique twist to the classic mapo tofu dish, try adding some crispy Chinese sausage. The smoky and savory flavor of the sausage pairs perfectly with the spicy and bold flavors of the mapo tofu. It's a simple addition that takes this dish to the next level.
11of 20
Chinese Tofu Veggie Chow Mein {Gluten-Free, Vegan}
Main Ingredients: Water, Gluten Free Brown Rice Spaghetti, Canola Oil
If you're in the mood for Chinese takeout but want to keep it gluten-free and vegan, this tofu veggie chow mein recipe is the perfect solution. Made with rice noodles, vegetables, and tofu, this dish is full of flavor and satisfies all dietary preferences. It's a great option for a quick and healthy dinner.
12of 20
Mapo Dofu | Chinese Spicy Pork with Tofu
Main Ingredients: Szechuan Peppercorns, Peanut Oil, Ground Pork, Chili
This mapo dofu recipe is another delicious variation of the classic dish. Made with ground pork, tofu, and a spicy chili bean paste, this dish is full of bold flavors and a satisfying level of heat. It's a great way to switch up your usual mapo tofu routine.
13of 20
Simple Tofus Chinese Style | healthy Tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Green Pepper, Chili Pepper And Garlic Sauce, Oil
If you're looking for a healthier version of mapo tofu without sacrificing flavor, this simple tofu Chinese style recipe is the way to go. Made with soft tofu, mushrooms, and a homemade sauce, this dish is lower in fat and sodium than traditional versions. It's a great option for those watching their health without compromising on taste.
For a lighter and refreshing take on tofu, try this Chinese tofu salad. Made with cubed tofu, vegetables, and a sesame dressing, this salad is packed with protein and flavor. It's a great option for a light lunch or as a side dish to a Chinese-inspired meal.
15of 20
Sweet & Sticky Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu)
Main Ingredients: Molasses, Tofu, Hoisin Sauce, Garlic, Ginger, Chinese
If you're a fan of Chinese BBQ pork, or char siu, this recipe is a must-try. Made with a homemade marinade and a sweet and sticky glaze, this dish is full of flavor and perfect for those who love a little sweetness in their meals. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Hot pot is a popular Chinese cooking style that involves cooking raw ingredients in a simmering broth at the table. This recipe includes a spicy Szechuan hot pot broth and a variety of ingredients like tofu, vegetables, and meatballs. It's a fun and interactive meal that's perfect for gatherings with family and friends.
17of 20
Vegetable Lo Mein – Chinese Vegetable and Tofu Lo Mein
Main Ingredients: Lo Mein Noodles, Firm Tofu, Assorted Vegetables, Spring
Lo mein is a classic Chinese noodle dish that is often made with vegetables and a protein, like tofu. This vegetable and tofu lo mein recipe is a vegetarian twist on the traditional dish and is loaded with crisp vegetables and chewy noodles. It's a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
18of 20
Seafood & Tofu Soup (Quick Chinese Soup)
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Scallops, Prawns, Calamari, Chicken Stock, Water
This seafood and tofu soup is a quick and easy Chinese soup that's full of flavor and packed with protein. Made with a combination of seafood, soft tofu, and a savory broth, this soup is perfect for a light lunch or as a starter dish for a Chinese-inspired meal. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables for an extra boost of nutrients.
19of 20
Chinese Tomato Tofu Stir Fry
Main Ingredients: Medium Tomatoes, Tofu, Cooking Oil, Salt, Sugar
This tomato tofu stir fry is a simple and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the umami flavors of tofu. It's a great option for a quick and easy meal that doesn't skimp on taste. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying dish.
20of 20
Chinese Pizza with Ginger Garlic Tofu
Main Ingredients: Hoisin Sauce, Red Pepper, Green Onion, Chopped
For a unique and delicious twist on pizza, try this Chinese pizza with ginger garlic tofu. Made with a homemade dough and a flavorful topping of tofu, vegetables, and a ginger garlic sauce, this pizza is full of bold and savory flavors. It's a fun and tasty way to switch up your usual pizza routine.
Ingredients
Firm Tofu
When making mapo tofu, it is important to use firm tofu as it holds its shape better and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Silken tofu is not recommended as it can easily break apart.
Minced Meat
Traditionally, pork is used in this dish, but you can also use beef, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The meat adds a savory element to the dish and complements the spiciness of the sauce.
Sichuan Peppercorns
These fragrant and numbing peppercorns are a key ingredient in Sichuan cuisine and give mapo tofu its distinctive flavor. You can find them in most Asian grocery stores or online.
Chili Peppers
The level of spiciness in this dish can be adjusted by using different types of chili peppers such as dried red chili peppers, Sichuan chili bean paste, or chili oil. Use as much or as little as you can handle.
Other Seasonings
To balance out the spiciness, you will also need garlic, ginger, green onions, and soy sauce. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by draining the tofu and cutting it into small cubes. Then, lightly fry the tofu in oil until it turns golden brown. This will give the tofu a firmer texture and enhance its flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In the same pan, cook the minced meat until it is browned. Drain any excess oil and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate pan, heat oil and add minced garlic, ginger, and green onions. Then, add the Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. Stir fry until fragrant. Next, add the meat and tofu into the pan and mix well.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Pour in soy sauce and a small amount of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and serve the mapo tofu hot with steamed rice. Garnish with more green onions and chili oil if desired.
In conclusion, this authentic Chinese mapo tofu recipe is a must-try for any food lover. With its bold and spicy flavors, it will surely impress your taste buds. So gather the ingredients and follow the instructions to make a delicious and authentic mapo tofu dish at home. Don't forget to use firm tofu, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili peppers to bring out the true essence of this classic Chinese dish.