Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's quick to make and adaptable to your spice preferences? Look no further! This Mapo Tofu recipe is a delightful twist on the classic, perfect for those who love the flavors of Sichuan cuisine but prefer a milder heat. It's a fantastic option for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, all while showcasing the joy of homemade cooking. Get ready to experience a flavorful and surprisingly simple dish that's sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup ground pork (or substitute with 1/2 cup crumbled firm tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat (use sparingly)
Instructions:
Get started: Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. This is crucial for achieving a firm texture in your finished dish. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for at least 15-20 minutes.
Sauté aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork (or tofu substitute) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan and sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant.
Build the flavor: Stir in the fermented black beans and cook for another minute. Return the pork (or tofu) to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and Shaoxing rice wine (if using) and mix well.
Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the pan and stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Gently combine and simmer: Add the cubed tofu to the pan, being careful not to break it up too much. Gently stir to coat the tofu in the sauce. Add the sesame oil and sugar, and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with sliced scallions and serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Mapo Tofu:
- Pressing the tofu: This step is crucial for preventing a soggy texture. Don't skip it!
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're working with a lot of tofu, cook it in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You may need more soy sauce or sugar depending on your taste.
- Spice it up (optional): If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or bok choy.
- Protein swaps: Chicken or shrimp can also be used instead of pork.
- Different tofu: Silken tofu will result in a creamier Mapo Tofu, but it's important to note that it will have a different texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used, but a typical serving contains roughly 250-300 calories, 15-20g of protein, and 10-15g of fat. This makes it a nutritious and satisfying option for healthy meals and delicious dishes. Remember that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary slightly.
This recipe provides a delightful and easy approach to enjoying Mapo Tofu, even for those who aren't fans of spicy food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal. Enjoy!