0 Shares

When evenings get hectic and I crave something comforting yet exhilarating, Mapo Tofu rises to the occasion with its fragrant, spicy allure. This beloved dish from Sichuan is often steeped in rich history, but my favorite version brings a unique twist by swapping out the traditional beef for tender pork mince. The result? A dish that’s not only family-friendly but also a delightful introduction for anyone hesitant about tofu.

Imagine the soft, creamy tofu absorbing the bold, umami-packed sauce, while the numbing heat from Sichuan peppercorns dances on your palate. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, and wonderfully adaptable to your spice preference. Whether you’re whipping it up for a laid-back family meal or impressing dinner guests, this Spicy Pork Mapo Tofu is bound to steal the show. Ready to elevate your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why is Mapo Tofu so irresistible?

Comforting and Easy: This Mapo Tofu recipe delivers all the cozy vibes while being incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for hectic weeknights.
Mouthwatering Flavors: The combination of spicy and savory notes from the pork mince and Sichuan peppercorns makes every bite a burst of flavor that’ll leave you wanting more.
Customizable for Everyone: Adjust the spice levels to cater to your family’s palate; whether you like it mild or fiery, you’re in control!
Versatile Base: Serve it over steamed rice or toss in your favorite vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests with this delightful dish, proving that homemade can be just as exciting as dining out.
Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!

Mapo Tofu Ingredients

• Unleash the flavors of this classic dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Sauce

Sichuan Peppercorns – Provides distinct numbing heat and aroma; substitute with black pepper for less spice.
Douban Jiang (2 tbsp) – Spicy fermented chili bean paste gives depth; can replace with chili garlic sauce if unavailable.
Garlic (3 cloves, finely chopped) – Enhances flavor; no direct substitute, but shallots can add a similar flavor profile.
Ginger (1 tbsp, finely chopped) – Adds warmth and freshness; no direct substitute.
Chili Powder (1 tsp, or to taste) – Additional heat source; cayenne can be used instead.
Chicken Stock (1 cup) – Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is a suitable vegetarian alternative.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) and Dark Soy Sauce (1 tsp) – For seasoning and color; can substitute with tamari for gluten-free.
Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances the spice; honey or agave syrup can be used.
Vinegar (1 tsp) – Adds acidity; rice vinegar is a good substitute.
Cornflour (2 tsp mixed with 2 tsp water) – Thickener for sauce; arrowroot powder can serve as an alternative.
Sesame Oil (1 tsp) – Finishing touch for nutty flavor; peanut oil can be used.

For the Tofu

Soft Tofu (380g/13.4 oz) – Offers a creamy texture; use silken tofu for an even softer mouthfeel.

For the Meat

Pork Mince (100g/3.5 oz) – Main protein source for the dish; ground beef can be used as an alternative.

For the Garnish

Spring Onion/Scallions (2 tbsp, finely sliced) – Fresh garnish for flavor and color; chives can be a substitute.

To Serve

Steamed Rice – A perfect base for the dish to soak up the rich flavors.

How to Make Mapo Tofu

Toast and Grind: Toast the Sichuan peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Grind them into a fine powder with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
Prepare Tofu: Gently drain the soft tofu and cut it into cubes. Simmer in salted water for 2-3 minutes until slightly firm but still tender.
Cook Pork: In a hot wok, heat 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the pork mince and cook until browned, approximately 4-5 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of douban jiang and cook for 2 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Incorporate the finely chopped garlic, ginger, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder into the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build Flavor: Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, along with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dark soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce for about 3-4 minutes.
Thicken Sauce: Stir in the cornflour mixed with 2 teaspoons of water and sprinkle in the ground Sichuan peppercorns. Adjust the seasoning to taste for balance.
Combine Tofu: Carefully add the drained tofu to the wok, gently tossing to coat it with the sauce without breaking it apart. Drizzle in 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for that finishing touch.
Serve & Garnish: Serve the Mapo Tofu in a bowl, garnished with finely sliced spring onions, alongside freshly steamed rice.

Optional: For extra color and crunch, add some steamed bok choy as a side.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Mapo Tofu?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing the rich, spicy notes of Mapo Tofu with complementary sides that add both flavor and texture to your meal.

Steamed Rice: This classic accompaniment soaks up the savory sauce, providing a comforting, fluffy base to balance the dish’s spice.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A light and crunchy side that adds vibrant color and a fresh bite, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
Garlic Noodles: The buttery, garlicky flavors of noodles create a delightful contrast to Mapo Tofu, making for an indulgent combination.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: The crisp, coolness of cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast, cleansing your palate with each bite.
Spring Rolls: These crispy delights bring texture and a hint of sweetness, pairing perfectly with the hearty, spiced content of Mapo Tofu.
Chili Oil Drizzle: A touch of chili oil adds extra heat and a beautiful finish, intensifying the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
Sesame Greens: Cooked with a splash of soy and sesame oil, these greens echo the flavors in Mapo Tofu while adding an earthy, nutty note.
Light Beer or Iced Green Tea: A crisp, cold drink will refresh the palate, cooling down the spice while complementing the meal’s overall warmth.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat offers a creamy finish to your meal, balancing the savory elements of Mapo Tofu deliciously.

Expert Tips for Mapo Tofu

Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling the tofu to prevent it from breaking apart during cooking and mixing.
Spice Adjustment: Start with less chili powder if you’re sensitive to heat, and taste as you go to find your perfect spice level in this Mapo Tofu dish.
Optimal Wok Heat: Make sure your wok is adequately heated before adding any ingredients; this ensures better stir-frying and helps develop rich flavors.
Slotted Spoon: Use a slotted spoon when adding tofu to the sauce; this helps maintain its structure while allowing excess liquid to drain off.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before serving; you can add more sugar, soy sauce, or vinegar for balanced flavors according to your preference.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Pork Mapo Tofu are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, simply by cooking the pork with the spices, garlic, and ginger before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The tofu can be pre-cut and stored in water overnight to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, heat the sauce on the stove, gently add the tofu, and stir until warmed through. This way, you’ll create a deliciously quick meal that still feels comforting and homemade, ensuring it remains just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Mapo Tofu

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove to maintain the tofu’s soft texture.

Freezer: Mapo Tofu can be frozen for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers, ensuring the dish cools completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, do so on a low heat to keep the tofu from breaking apart. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Mapo Tofu out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Mapo Tofu Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious dish and explore various flavor profiles!

Dairy-Free: Replace soft tofu with silken tofu to achieve a creamier texture untainted by dairy; perfect for plant-based eaters.
Heat Boost: Add extra chili oil or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce for a fiery twist that’ll make your taste buds tingle with excitement!
Vegetable Medley: Toss in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or shiitake mushrooms to enhance nutrition and texture, creating a vibrant skillet.
Udon Noodles: Swap out the tofu completely for udon noodles, letting them absorb the flavorful sauce for a hearty, noodle-centric experience.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure your dish stays safe for gluten-sensitive diners without sacrificing flavor.
Meatless Option: Go vegetarian with a mix of lentils or chickpeas instead of pork mince, providing a protein punch while keeping it plant-forward.
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup in for a sweet contrast to the dish’s heat, creating a delightful balance that might surprise you!
Herbaceous Finish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top before serving for an aromatic freshness that brightens every bite and enhances the flavor journey.

Spicy Pork Mapo Tofu Recipe FAQs

What type of tofu should I use for Mapo Tofu?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using soft tofu, which offers a creamy mouthfeel. Silken tofu can also be used for an even softer experience, but it requires more gentle handling. To maintain the structure, avoid stirring too aggressively.

How do I store leftover Mapo Tofu?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to keep the tofu from breaking apart. Adding a splash of water or broth can help rehydrate the sauce, ensuring it remains delicious!

Can I freeze Mapo Tofu?
Very! Mapo Tofu can be frozen for up to 2 months. First, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and remember to rewarm it gently on low heat to maintain the tofu’s delicate nature.

What can I do if my Mapo Tofu sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up too thick, simply add a little chicken stock or water during reheating to loosen it up. Stir in small amounts until you reach your desired consistency. This step ensures you won’t compromise on flavor while achieving the perfect sauciness.

Is Mapo Tofu suitable for vegetarians?
While traditional Mapo Tofu contains pork, you can easily make it vegetarian by swapping out the minced pork for mushrooms or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and you’ll have a delightful vegetarian version that everyone will love.