Mapo Tofu
Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish known for its bold flavors and fiery spiciness. This highly sought-after dish combines soft tofu, ground meat, and a unique blend of spices that creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Follow this detailed recipe to achieve an authentic and delicious Mapo Tofu.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound soft tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 pound ground beef or pork
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
- 2 tablespoons chili bean paste
- 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed and minced
- 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the tofu by cutting it into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform in size. Set aside.
2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the crushed Sichuan peppercorns and toast them for a minute until fragrant. Remove the peppercorns and set them aside.
3. In the same wok, add the ground beef or pork and cook until browned and cooked through. Break up any clumps with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Remove the meat from the wok and set aside, leaving any remaining oil in the pan.
4. Add the chili bean paste, fermented black beans, ginger, and garlic to the wok. Stir-fry for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the mixture.
5. Return the cooked meat to the wok and mix it with the chili bean paste mixture. Stir in the chicken or vegetable broth, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Gently add the tofu cubes to the wok, taking care not to break them. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7. Stir the cornstarch-water mixture to recombine, then pour it into the wok. Gently stir the mixture to thicken the sauce, being careful not to break the tofu.
8. Add the sliced green onions and sesame oil to the wok, stirring them into the dish. Simmer for another minute to allow the flavors to blend.
9. Remove the wok from the heat and transfer the Mapo Tofu to a serving dish.
10. Serve the Mapo Tofu hot, accompanied by steamed rice. Garnish with additional sliced green onions if desired.
Enjoy this delectable Mapo Tofu, a masterpiece of Sichuan cuisine, which showcases the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and aromatic flavors. Savor each bite as the silky tofu, fragrant spices, and tender meat create an unforgettable dining experience.
