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Ma Po Tofu Recipe

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Ma Po Tofu

Cultural Context

Originating from Sichuan province, Ma Po Tofu is a beloved dish known for its bold flavors and numbing spice from Sichuan peppercorns. Traditionally, it was created by a widow who served it in her small restaurant, and it has since become a staple of Chinese cuisine. Today, variations abound worldwide, with many adapting the recipe to suit local tastes while maintaining its signature heat and richness.

SichuanCNmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
1/4 cup peanut oil
20 dried red chili peppers
3 tablespoons peanut oil
2 tablespoons garlic
2 tablespoons ginger
1.5 tablespoons ground Szechuan peppercorn
4 oz ground pork
2 tablespoons spicy bean paste
3/4 cup chicken stock
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon chicken stock
1 block silken tofu
1/4 cup green onion

ground pork

๐Ÿฅ—Healthier: ground turkey

๐Ÿ’ฐCheaper: tofu

Ground turkey is leaner and lower in calories.

Sichuan peppercorns

๐Ÿฅ—Healthier: black pepper

๐Ÿ’ฐCheaper: white pepper

Black pepper is more accessible and offers a different flavor profile.

doubanjiang

๐Ÿฅ—Healthier: homemade chili paste

๐Ÿ’ฐCheaper: sriracha

Sriracha is widely available and provides a similar heat.

chicken broth

๐Ÿฅ—Healthier: vegetable broth

๐Ÿ’ฐCheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth offers a lighter option while maintaining flavor.

1

In a pot on low heat, add 1/4 cup peanut oil and 20 dried red chili peppers and cook for around 10 minutes to toast the chiles.

2

To a wok on low heat, add 3 tablespoons peanut oil, 2 tablespoons garlic, 2 tablespoons ginger, and 1.5 tablespoons ground Szechuan peppercorn. Cook for three minutes.

3

Increase heat to medium and add 4 oz of ground pork. Cook until pork is just done.

4

Add 2 tablespoons spicy bean paste and cook for 2 minutes.

5

Add 3/4 cup chicken stock and increase heat to medium high.

6

Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon chicken stock, mix, and bring to a boil while mixing.

7

After it comes to a boil, add the chili oil and chilies.

8

Mix and add 1 block of silken tofu (cut into cubes).

9

Carefully stir and cook for 1 minute, then add 1/4 cup green onion.

10

To serve, garnish with green onion and ground Szechuan peppercorn.

Cooking Techniques

simmeringstir-frying

Equipment Needed

potwok

Spice Level:

๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ

Dietary

gluten-freedairy-free

Allergens

soy

Also Known As

Mapo Doufu้บปๅฉ†่ฑ†่…

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