{"id":1594,"date":"2022-05-29T17:35:00","date_gmt":"2022-05-29T17:35:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/?p=1594"},"modified":"2022-06-07T14:49:29","modified_gmt":"2022-06-07T14:49:29","slug":"mapo-tofu-authentic-way","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/","title":{"rendered":"Mapo tofu, the authentic way (\u9ebb\u5a46\u8c46\u8150)"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<p><em>Tender tofu cooked in an umami and spicy sauce, accompanied by minced meat, Mapo tofu is one of the tastiest ways to prepare this healthy ingredient.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-with-spices-on-the-side-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"a plate of Chinese Mapo tofu\" class=\"wp-image-21116\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2 id=\"table-of-contents\">Table of Contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#why-is-it-call-mapo-tofu\">Why is it call Mapo tofu?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-does-it-taste-like\">What does it taste like<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#ingredients\">Ingredients<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#cooking-procedure\">Cooking procedure<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-to-serve-with\">What to serve with<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#faqs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#other-tofu-dishes\">Other tofu dishes<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#%f0%9f%93%8b-recipe\">&#128203; Recipe<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-is-it-call-mapo-tofu\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">Why is it call Mapo tofu?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>&ldquo;What is your favourite <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/category\/tofu-recipes\/\">tofu dish<\/a>?&rdquo; Once I asked a group of non-Chinese friends who had experiences with Chinese food. Their answer &ldquo;Mapo tofu&rdquo; didn&rsquo;t surprise me. Today, I&rsquo;d like to show you how to cook this classic dish the authentic way (with the formula I learned from a chef in Sichuan).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A signature dish of Sichuan cuisine, Mapo tofu (&#40635;&#23110;&#35910;&#33104;) is believed to be named after its inventor &ldquo;<em>Mapo\/&#40635;&#23110;<\/em>&rdquo; who ran a small restaurant over a century ago in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. &ldquo;Mapo&rdquo; isn&rsquo;t the name but a description of this originator. It literally means an elderly lady with a pockmarked face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The classic version of Mapo tofu contains tender tofu cubes and minced meat coated with an aromatic, hot and mouth-tingling sauce made with a set of quintessential condiments and spices of Sichuan cooking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As Mapo tofu became popular outside China, it is often presented in restaurants with various adaptations. Some of these alterations are modest while the others are quite dramatic. Today&rsquo;s Mapo tofu recipe reflects <strong>the way this dish is traditionally prepared in terms of the flavour, spice level and texture<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-spoon-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"spooning out one piece of Mapo tofu\" class=\"wp-image-21118\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-does-it-taste-like\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">What does it taste like<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you think tofu dishes are bland, then you need to try this dish. Sichuan chefs use five words to label the taste of top-notch Mapo tofu: spicy, mouth-numbing, aromatic, tender and hot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Spicy (&#36771;)<\/strong>: Both <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-chilli-bean-paste\/\">Sichuan chilli bean paste <\/a>(aka spicy Doubanjiang) and chilli powder\/flakes contribute to the spiciness. The latter also enhances the red colour of the dish.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mouth-Numbing (&#40635;)<\/strong>: This particular sensation comes from <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-pepper-guide\/\">Sichuan pepper<\/a>, a spice unique to Chinese cuisine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aromatic (&#39321;)<\/strong>: The aroma comes from <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/fermented-black-beans\/\">fermented black beans<\/a>, aromatics (ginger and garlic), minced meat, as well as the sauce and spices mentioned above.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tender (&#23273;)<\/strong>: This refers to the texture of the tofu. It should be jiggly and soft but doesn&rsquo;t fall apart easily (more on tofu choices in later sections).&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hot, physically (&#28907;)<\/strong>: For best taste, it needs to be served right after cooking when the flavour of the dish is at its peak (but be careful not to burn your mouth as tofu holds heat very well).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ingredients\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">Ingredients<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is a list of ingredients you need to make classic Mapo tofu (<em>more info on key ingredients and quantity in later sections<\/em>):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/ingredients-for-mapo-tofu-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"ingredients for making Mapo tofu\" class=\"wp-image-21127\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tofu (soft or medium-firm)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minced beef\/pork (or shiitake mushrooms for a vegan diet)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sichuan chilli bean paste<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fermented black beans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chilli powder\/flakes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ground Sichuan pepper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ginger, garlic, scallions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shaoxing rice wine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cornstarch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You should be able to find the sauces and spices above in your local Chinese\/Asian supermarkets or popular online shopping platforms.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What type of tofu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mapo tofu calls for regular tofu (aka block tofu) which is pressed into large blocks then cut into pieces for sale. It&rsquo;s often soaked in water and has a coarse or fine sponge texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/three-blocks-of-tofu-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"tofu blocks in a container\" class=\"wp-image-21130\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Two types of regular tofu are commonly used in traditional Chinese cuisine: Soft tofu (Nen Dou Fu\/&#23273;&#35910;&#33104;) and firm tofu (Lao Dou Fu\/&#32769;&#35910;&#33104; or Bei Dou Fu\/&#21271;&#35910;&#33104;).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soft regular tofu is the perfect choice for Mapo tofu<\/strong> thanks to its tender, jiggly and slippery texture. Although much softer than firm tofu, it doesn&rsquo;t break easily if handled and cooked properly (<em>see tips in the cooking sections below<\/em>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#128718;<strong> TIP: <\/strong>I&rsquo;ve seen soft tofu (&#23273;&#35910;&#33104;) sold in Chinese supermarkets labelled as &ldquo;Medium-firm&rdquo;. If unsure, ask shop assistants for help (show them the Chinese characters above).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although not the popular choice, firm regular tofu is also acceptable for this dish as some people prefer its pronounced &ldquo;bean flavour&rdquo; and its ability to soak up seasonings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#128718; <strong>NOTE:<\/strong> Silken tofu (&#32482;&#35910;&#33104;), a type of unpressed tofu that coagulates directly in its container, isn&rsquo;t traditionally used for Mapo tofu. But it&rsquo;s acceptable as a substitute. In this case, <strong>choose medium-firm or firm silken tofu<\/strong> and avoid the soft version.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Minced meat and its substitute<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In Chinese cooking, tofu dishes often contain a small amount of meat for extra flavour (Think <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/stuffed-tofu\/\">Hakka-Style Stuffed Tofu<\/a>). Minced beef or pork is commonly used in Mapo tofu. Replace it with chicken or turkey if you wish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#129388; <strong>Vegan Mapo tofu<\/strong>: Shiitake mushrooms can be used as a substitute for the vegan version. Dried ones are preferable to fresh ones as they have a more complex flavour. Soak until plump. Trim off the stems then chop into small pieces.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sichuan chilli bean paste<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Considered the soul of Sichuan cuisine, chilli bean paste (aka spicy doubanjiang) is indispensable for making authentic Mapo tofu. It&rsquo;s a fermented sauce made of broad beans and chilli peppers. Read my <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-chilli-bean-paste\/\">chilli bean paste<\/a> post to learn all you need to know about this unique ingredient.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/two-types-chilli-bean-paste-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Two types of Sichuan chilli bean paste\" class=\"wp-image-21131\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When sourcing it in Chinese\/Asian markets, look for its best variety <strong>Pixian Douban (&#37099;&#21439;&#35910;&#29923;)<\/strong> which comes in two versions: the regular (<em>right in the image above<\/em>) and the red oil version (<em>left in the image above<\/em>). Both are great for today&rsquo;s dish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#128718;<strong> TIP:<\/strong> If using the regular version, remember to chop it finer beforehand for a better mouthfeel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ground chilli or chilli flakes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Dried chilli pepper, in the form of either powder or flakes, provides spiciness and an appetising red colour to the dish. Please feel free to use any type available that suits your tolerance to heat. Ideally, it shouldn&rsquo;t contain other spices or salt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sichuan pepper<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1643\" height=\"924\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Sichuan-pepper-portrait2.jpg\" alt=\"Freshly ground Sichuan pepper in a spoon.\" class=\"wp-image-1018\" srcset=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Sichuan-pepper-portrait2.jpg 1643w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Sichuan-pepper-portrait2-400x225.jpg 400w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Sichuan-pepper-portrait2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Sichuan-pepper-portrait2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Sichuan-pepper-portrait2-1024x576.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1643px) 100vw, 1643px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>An essential flavour component of Mapo tofu, Sichuan pepper is also a must-have ingredient (unfamiliar with this unique spice? Read my <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-pepper-guide\/\">Complete Guide to Sichuan Peppercorns<\/a>). It&rsquo;s typically paired with chillies to create the iconic flavour profile known as <em>Mala\/&#40635;&#36771;<\/em>, meaning mouth-numbing and spicy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When time permits, I use <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-peppercorn\/\">freshly ground Sichuan pepper<\/a> that only takes a few simple steps to make. Ready-to-use ones found in Chinese\/Asian shops are also fine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fermented black beans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A typical flavour source in Mapo tofu, <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/fermented-black-beans\/\">fermented black beans<\/a> (Dou Chi\/&#35910;&#35913;) often pairs with chilli bean paste in Sichuan dishes (such as <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/black-bean-sauce\/\">Black Bean Sauce<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/twice-cooked-pork-fast-version\/\">Twice-cooked Pork<\/a>). They deliver a complex taste: fragrant, earthy, salty and bittersweet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although important, it can be omitted, in my opinion, as the taste of the dish won&rsquo;t be greatly compromised without them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cooking-procedure\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">Cooking procedure<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It only takes a few simple steps to cook Mapo tofu: blanch tofu cubes in salted water; fry minced meat with aromatic seasonings; braise tofu in the flavoured broth which is thickened at the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Blanch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This step is to help firm up the tofu cubes so that they don&rsquo;t break while handling but retain the bouncy, tender texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/cutting-tofu-cubes-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"cutting tofu into cubes\" class=\"wp-image-21124\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After cutting the tofu into cubes (about 2.5cm\/1inch), gently slide them into a wok\/pot filled with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/blanching-tofu-cubes-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"blanching tofu in water\" class=\"wp-image-21123\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Over high heat, bring the water to a gentle boil. Then turn down the heat to let it simmer for 1 minute. Fish out the tofu and set it aside.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Fry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During this step, you&rsquo;re going to combine all the flavour components of the dish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/frying-minced-meat-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"frying minced pork\" class=\"wp-image-21126\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Heat up a clean, empty wok until hot then add the oil (if using non-stick cookware, add the oil first then heat). Put in the minced meat and minced ginger. Stir-fry over high heat until the meat loosens and becomes pale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/adding-sauce-spices-to-meat-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"minced pork with chilli bean paste, black beans, chilli powder and garlic\" class=\"wp-image-21120\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Add Sichuan chilli bean paste, fermented black beans, chilli powder\/flakes and minced garlic. Fry until well combined and the aroma intensifies in the air.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/frying-meat-with-sauce-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"frying minced pork with spices\" class=\"wp-image-21125\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Braise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This step allows the tofu to absorb the fragrant cooking liquid which is thickened towards the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/adding-water-to-wok-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"adding water to a wok\" class=\"wp-image-21122\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Pour in <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/shaoxing-rice-wine\/\">Shaoxing rice wine <\/a>and water (you may use unsalted chicken stock for a richer taste). Bring to a boil then gently slide in the drained tofu. Leave to boil over high heat for about 5 minutes (uncovered).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/simmering-tofu-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"boiling tofu in a spicy liquid\" class=\"wp-image-21128\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While waiting, mix some cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. When time is up, lower the heat to medium. Pour in half of the mixture (make sure to stir it well beforehand). Leave to simmer for 10 seconds or so, then pour in the other half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/adding-cornstarch-water-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"adding cornstarch slurry to Mapo tofu\" class=\"wp-image-21119\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Gently stir to evenly distribute the thickening agent. Once the sauce becomes just thick enough to coat your spatula, add ground Sichuan pepper and sprinkle chopped scallions over. Give everything a final mix and remove from the heat immediately.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/adding-spice-to-mapo-tofu-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"adding Sichuan pepper and scallions to Mapo tofu\" class=\"wp-image-21121\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>&#128718;<strong> TIPS:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sauce thickening:<\/strong> After pouring in the cornstarch slurry, the cooking liquid will thicken pretty quickly. When it looks a little runnier than your desired consistency, you should stop cooking as it will become thicker by the time the dish is served at the table. Don&rsquo;t overcook. Otherwise, the sauce will turn lumpy.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use round-edged utensils to handle the tofu in case you accidentally break it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-to-serve-with\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">What to serve with<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For a quick lunch, simply pour it over <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/jasmine-rice-on-stove\/\">plain steamed rice<\/a>. Although not a common option, I also like serving it with <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/alkaline-noodles-ramen-noodles\/\">noodles<\/a> (love how the sauce clings onto the noodle strands).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-cubes-over-rice-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"mapo tofu over a bowl of rice\" class=\"wp-image-21117\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Or, include it in a multi-dish dinner. Pair it with other savoury protein or vegetable dishes. Take what we had last Saturday for example: Mapo tofu, <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/steamed-chicken-mushroom\/\">steamed chicken<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/smashed-cucumber\/\">smashed cucumber<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/hot-sour-soup\/\">hot and sour soup<\/a> and jasmine rice. Does this combination sound good?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faqs\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653842007725\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Q: Can I use black pepper to replace Sichuan pepper?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>A:<\/strong> As I explained in my <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-pepper-guide\/\">Sichuan Pepper Guide<\/a>, there isn&rsquo;t another spice that tastes similar. It is a key ingredient for the classic version of Mapo tofu. However, adding a little black pepper wouldn&rsquo;t ruin the dish with the presence of other key seasonings.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653841981992\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Q: I can&rsquo;t find Sichuan chilli bean paste. How to substitute?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>A:<\/strong> There isn&rsquo;t a substitute but you can use the following ideas to create a nice-tasting dish (despite not being authentic).<br>a) Use homemade <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/black-bean-sauce\/\">spicy black bean sauce<\/a>,  or commercial ones like Laoganma black bean chilli sauce (&#32769;&#24178;&#22920;&#39118;&#21619;&#35910;&#35913;). In this case, you can omit fermented black beans in the recipe.<br>b) Mix an Asian fermented bean paste (e.g. Chinese yellow bean sauce, Japanese miso, Korean doenjang) with <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/chinese-chilli-oil\/\">Chinese chilli oil<\/a> or a hot sauce of your choice.<br><strong>N.B.<\/strong> You may need to adjust the quantity based on the saltiness of individual condiments.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653842049962\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Q: My tolerance for hot food isn&rsquo;t very high but I like the flavour of this dish. How do I adapt?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A: Please feel free to reduce the quantity of ground chilli\/chilli flakes. Or, choose a variety that looks vibrantly red but doesn&rsquo;t taste hot (e.g. paprika). Sichuan chilli bean paste has medium heat so use a little less if you wish (add a little <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/soy-sauce\/\">soy sauce<\/a> to make up the saltiness). Another way is to add some sugar to neutralise the hotness.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653842071256\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Q: Can I use this recipe to cook other ingredients instead of tofu?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A: You surely can! I&rsquo;ve used the same set of seasonings and methods to cook diced chicken thighs and vegetables such as aubergines, king oyster mushrooms, cauliflowers, etc.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"other-tofu-dishes\"><span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">Other tofu dishes<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As a very healthy source of protein, tofu can be prepared in so many scrumptious ways: in salads, stir-fries, stews, soups, etc. Here are some classics to try:<\/p>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-post-listing cwp-large layout-4up-grid\"><header><innerblocks class=\"block-post-listing__title cwp-inner\" template='[[\"core\\\/heading\",{\"level\":2,\"placeholder\":\"Title Goes Here\"}]]' allowedblocks='[\"core\\\/heading\",\"core\\\/paragraph\"]'><\/innerblocks><\/header><div class=\"block-post-listing__inner\"><article class=\"post-summary\"><div class=\"post-summary__image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/braised-tofu-sichuan-style\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Braised-tofu-sichuan-style-feature-600x800.jpg\" class=\"nopin\" alt=\"Braised tofu with Sichuan seasoning\" data-pin-nopin=\"1\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 50vw, 276px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Braised-tofu-sichuan-style-feature-600x800.jpg 600w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Braised-tofu-sichuan-style-feature-378x504.jpg 378w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Braised-tofu-sichuan-style-feature-276x368.jpg 276w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Braised-tofu-sichuan-style-feature-640x853.jpg 640w\"><\/a><\/div><div class=\"post-summary__content\"><h3 class=\"post-summary__title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/braised-tofu-sichuan-style\/\">Braised Tofu Sichuan Style (&#23478;&#24120;&#35910;&#33104;)<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/article><article class=\"post-summary\"><div class=\"post-summary__image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/pan-fried-tofu\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Pan-fried-tofu-with-garlic-sauce-recipe-card-600x800.jpg\" class=\"nopin\" alt=\"Pan fried tofu with garlic sauce\" data-pin-nopin=\"1\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 50vw, 276px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Pan-fried-tofu-with-garlic-sauce-recipe-card-600x800.jpg 600w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Pan-fried-tofu-with-garlic-sauce-recipe-card-378x504.jpg 378w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Pan-fried-tofu-with-garlic-sauce-recipe-card-276x368.jpg 276w\"><\/a><\/div><div class=\"post-summary__content\"><h3 class=\"post-summary__title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/pan-fried-tofu\/\">Pan-fried tofu with garlic sauce (&#40060;&#39321;&#35910;&#33104;)<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/article><article class=\"post-summary\"><div class=\"post-summary__image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/salt-and-pepper-tofu\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/salt-pepper-tofu-600x800.jpg\" class=\"nopin\" alt=\"Chinese salt and pepper tofu with fresh chilli\" data-pin-nopin=\"1\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 50vw, 276px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/salt-pepper-tofu-600x800.jpg 600w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/salt-pepper-tofu-378x504.jpg 378w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/salt-pepper-tofu-276x368.jpg 276w\"><\/a><\/div><div class=\"post-summary__content\"><h3 class=\"post-summary__title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/salt-and-pepper-tofu\/\">Salt and Pepper Tofu (&#26898;&#30416;&#35910;&#33104;)<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/article><article class=\"post-summary\"><div class=\"post-summary__image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/silken-tofu-salad\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/silken-tofu-with-scallion-soy-dressing-600x800.jpg\" class=\"nopin\" alt=\"a block of silken tofu with scallion and soy dressing\" data-pin-nopin=\"1\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 50vw, 276px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/silken-tofu-with-scallion-soy-dressing-600x800.jpg 600w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/silken-tofu-with-scallion-soy-dressing-378x504.jpg 378w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/silken-tofu-with-scallion-soy-dressing-276x368.jpg 276w\"><\/a><\/div><div class=\"post-summary__content\"><h3 class=\"post-summary__title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/silken-tofu-salad\/\">Silken Tofu with Scallions and Soy Dressing<\/a><\/h3><\/div><\/article><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"%f0%9f%93%8b-recipe\">&#128203; <span style=\"color: #4d8682;\">Recipe<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left has-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#ecf4f2;font-size:15px;text-transform:uppercase\">Love this recipe? Please <a href=\"#commentform\" data-type=\"internal\" data-id=\"#commentform\">leave a &#127775;&#127775;&#127775;&#127775;&#127775; rating and a comment<\/a>. Thank you!<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"recipe\"><\/div><div id=\"wprm-recipe-container-7739\" class=\"wprm-recipe-container\" data-recipe-id=\"7739\" data-servings=\"2\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe wprm-recipe-template-cwp-food\"><div class=\"cwp-food-header\">\n\t<div class=\"wprm-recipe-image wprm-block-image-rounded nopin\"><img decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-width: 0px;border-style: solid;border-color: #666666;border-radius: 12px;\" width=\"250\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-300x300.jpg\" class=\"attachment-250x250 size-250x250\" alt=\"Mapo tofu in a plate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-500x500.jpg 500w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-360x360.jpg 360w, https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\"><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"cwp-food-header__upper\">\n\t\t<div><style>#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: var(--wp--custom--color--star); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 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onfocus=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.enter(this)\" onmouseleave=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.leave(this)\" onblur=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.leave(this)\" onclick=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.click(this, event)\" onkeypress=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.click(this, event)\" style=\"font-size: 1em;\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\" y=\"0px\" width=\"16px\" height=\"16px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><g transform=\"translate(0, 0)\"><polygon fill=\"none\" stroke=\"var(--wp--custom--color--star)\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"square\" stroke-miterlimit=\"10\" points=\"12,2.6 15,9 21.4,9 16.7,13.9 18.6,21.4 12,17.6 5.4,21.4 7.3,13.9 2.6,9 9,9 \" stroke-linejoin=\"miter\"><\/polygon><\/g><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"wprm-rating-star wprm-rating-star-2 wprm-rating-star-full\" data-rating=\"2\" data-color=\"var(--wp--custom--color--star)\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Rate this 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class=\"wprm-rating-star wprm-rating-star-4 wprm-rating-star-full\" data-rating=\"4\" data-color=\"var(--wp--custom--color--star)\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Rate this recipe 4 out of 5 stars\" onmouseenter=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.enter(this)\" onfocus=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.enter(this)\" onmouseleave=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.leave(this)\" onblur=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.leave(this)\" onclick=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.click(this, event)\" onkeypress=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.click(this, event)\" style=\"font-size: 1em;\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\" y=\"0px\" width=\"16px\" height=\"16px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><g transform=\"translate(0, 0)\"><polygon fill=\"none\" stroke=\"var(--wp--custom--color--star)\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"square\" stroke-miterlimit=\"10\" points=\"12,2.6 15,9 21.4,9 16.7,13.9 18.6,21.4 12,17.6 5.4,21.4 7.3,13.9 2.6,9 9,9 \" stroke-linejoin=\"miter\"><\/polygon><\/g><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"wprm-rating-star wprm-rating-star-5 wprm-rating-star-full\" data-rating=\"5\" data-color=\"var(--wp--custom--color--star)\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Rate this recipe 5 out of 5 stars\" onmouseenter=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.enter(this)\" onfocus=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.enter(this)\" onmouseleave=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.leave(this)\" onblur=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.leave(this)\" onclick=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.click(this, event)\" onkeypress=\"window.WPRecipeMaker.userRating.click(this, event)\" style=\"font-size: 1em;\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\" y=\"0px\" width=\"16px\" height=\"16px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><g transform=\"translate(0, 0)\"><polygon fill=\"none\" stroke=\"var(--wp--custom--color--star)\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"square\" stroke-miterlimit=\"10\" points=\"12,2.6 15,9 21.4,9 16.7,13.9 18.6,21.4 12,17.6 5.4,21.4 7.3,13.9 2.6,9 9,9 \" stroke-linejoin=\"miter\"><\/polygon><\/g><\/svg><\/span><div class=\"wprm-recipe-rating-details wprm-block-text-normal\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-rating-average\">5<\/span> from <span class=\"wprm-recipe-rating-count\">126<\/span> votes<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t<h2 class=\"wprm-recipe-name wprm-block-text-none\" id=\"mapo-tofu-the-authentic-way-%e9%ba%bb%e5%a9%86%e8%b1%86%e8%85%90\">Mapo Tofu, the Authentic Way (&#40635;&#23110;&#35910;&#33104;)<\/h2>\n\t\t<div class=\"wprm-recipe-block-container wprm-recipe-block-container-separate wprm-block-text-normal wprm-recipe-author-container\" style=\"\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-label wprm-block-text-normal wprm-recipe-author-label\">By <\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details wprm-recipe-author wprm-block-text-normal\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/about\/wei-guo\" target=\"_self\">Wei Guo<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"wprm-recipe-summary wprm-block-text-normal\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Tender tofu cooked in an aromatic and spicy sauce, accompanied by minced meat. This recipe shows you how to make Mapo tofu the authentic way.<\/span><\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"wprm-recipe-meta-container wprm-recipe-custom-container wprm-recipe-details-container wprm-recipe-details-container-inline wprm-block-text-none\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-block-container wprm-recipe-block-container-inline wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-time-container wprm-recipe-prep-time-container\" style=\"\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-label wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-time-label wprm-recipe-prep-time-label\">Prep: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-time wprm-block-text-none\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details wprm-recipe-details-minutes wprm-recipe-prep_time wprm-recipe-prep_time-minutes\">8<span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet> minutes<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-unit wprm-recipe-details-minutes wprm-recipe-prep_time-unit wprm-recipe-prep_timeunit-minutes\" aria-hidden=\"true\">mins<\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-block-container wprm-recipe-block-container-inline wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-time-container wprm-recipe-cook-time-container\" style=\"\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-label wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-time-label wprm-recipe-cook-time-label\">Cook: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-time wprm-block-text-none\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details wprm-recipe-details-minutes wprm-recipe-cook_time wprm-recipe-cook_time-minutes\">12<span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet> minutes<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-unit wprm-recipe-details-minutes wprm-recipe-cook_time-unit wprm-recipe-cook_timeunit-minutes\" aria-hidden=\"true\">mins<\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-block-container wprm-recipe-block-container-inline wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-time-container wprm-recipe-total-time-container\" style=\"\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-label wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-time-label wprm-recipe-total-time-label\">Total: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-time wprm-block-text-none\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details wprm-recipe-details-minutes wprm-recipe-total_time wprm-recipe-total_time-minutes\">20<span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet> minutes<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-unit wprm-recipe-details-minutes wprm-recipe-total_time-unit wprm-recipe-total_timeunit-minutes\" aria-hidden=\"true\">mins<\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-block-container wprm-recipe-block-container-inline wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-servings-container\" style=\"\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-details-label wprm-block-text-none wprm-recipe-servings-label\">Servings: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-servings-with-unit\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-servings wprm-recipe-details wprm-recipe-servings-7739 wprm-recipe-servings-adjustable-tooltip wprm-block-text-none\" data-recipe=\"7739\" aria-label=\"Adjust recipe servings\">2<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-servings-unit wprm-recipe-details-unit wprm-block-text-none\">servings<\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"cwp-food-header__lower\">\n\t\t<div class=\"cwp-food-buttons\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--background);visibility: hidden;\" class=\"wprm-recipe-slickstream-not-saved wprm-recipe-slickstream wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-normal\" data-recipe-id=\"7739\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-icon wprm-recipe-slickstream-icon wprm-recipe-slickstream-not-saved-icon\"><?xml version=\"1.0\" encoding=\"UTF-8\"?>\n<svg id=\"Layer_1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" version=\"1.1\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\">\n  <!-- Generator: Adobe Illustrator 30.0.0, SVG Export Plug-In . SVG Version: 2.1.1 Build 4)  -->\n  <defs>\n    <style>\n      .st0, .st1 {\n        fill: none;\n      }\n\n      .st1 {\n        stroke: #111;\n        stroke-linecap: round;\n        stroke-linejoin: round;\n        stroke-width: 1.14px;\n      }\n\n      .st2 {\n        clip-path: url(#clippath);\n      }\n    <\/style>\n    <clippath id=\"clippath\">\n      <rect class=\"st0\" x=\"1.12\" y=\"1.23\" width=\"13.02\" height=\"13.54\"><\/rect>\n    <\/clippath>\n  <\/defs>\n  <g class=\"st2\">\n    <path class=\"st1\" d=\"M12.27,13.61l-3.77-2.92c-.3-.23-.73-.23-1.03,0l-3.77,2.92c-.54.42-1.34.05-1.34-.62V3.26c0-.44.37-.79.82-.79h9.62c.46,0,.82.36.82.79v9.74c0,.67-.8,1.04-1.34.62h0Z\"><\/path>\n  <\/g>\n<\/svg><\/span> Save<\/a><a href=\"#\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--background);visibility: hidden;display: none;\" class=\"wprm-recipe-slickstream-saved wprm-recipe-slickstream wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-normal\" data-recipe-id=\"7739\">Saved Recipe<\/a>\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/bookmarklet\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fredhousespice.com%2Fmapo-tofu-authentic-way%2F&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2Fredhousespice.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F05%2Fmapo-tofu-in-a-plate-1.jpg&amp;description=Mapo+Tofu%2C+the+Authentic+Way+%28%E9%BA%BB%E5%A9%86%E8%B1%86%E8%85%90%29&amp;is_video=false\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-recipe=\"7739\" data-url=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/\" data-media=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-1.jpg\" data-description=\"Mapo Tofu, the Authentic Way (&#40635;&#23110;&#35910;&#33104;)\" data-repin=\"\" role=\"button\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--background);\" class=\"wprm-recipe-pin wprm-recipe-link wprm-block-text-normal\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-icon wprm-recipe-pin-icon\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"pin-white\" alt=\"\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\"><\/span> Pin<\/a>\n\t\t\t<a href=\"#comment\" class=\"wprm-recipe-rate-button\">Rate<\/a>\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wprm_print\/7739\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--background);\" class=\"wprm-recipe-print wprm-recipe-link wprm-print-recipe-shortcode wprm-block-text-normal\" data-recipe-id=\"7739\" data-template=\"\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Print<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"cwp-food-content\">\n\t\n\t<div id=\"recipe-video\"><\/div><div id=\"wprm-recipe-video-container-7739\" class=\"wprm-recipe-video-container\"><h3 class=\"wprm-recipe-header wprm-recipe-video-header wprm-block-text-none wprm-align-left wprm-header-decoration-none\" style=\"\">Video<\/h3><div class=\"wprm-recipe-video\"><iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/740FU5Y2Wwg\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wpforms-container one-line save-recipe wpforms-location-save_recipe_wprm wpforms-render-modern\" id=\"wpforms-53480\"><form id=\"wpforms-form-53480\" class=\"wpforms-validate wpforms-form wpforms-ajax-form\" data-formid=\"53480\" method=\"post\" enctype=\"multipart\/form-data\" action=\"\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1594\" data-token=\"6b195bcb348d49c2e42801e677b8dd06\" data-token-time=\"1783587928\"><div class=\"wpforms-head-container\"><div class=\"wpforms-title\">Save this recipe!<\/div><div class=\"wpforms-description\">Get this sent to your inbox, plus get new recipes from us every week!<\/div><\/div><noscript class=\"wpforms-error-noscript\">Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.<\/noscript><div id=\"wpforms-error-noscript\" style=\"display: none;\">Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.<\/div><div class=\"wpforms-field-container\"><div id=\"wpforms-53480-field_1-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-email\" data-field-id=\"1\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-53480-field_1\">Email <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\" aria-hidden=\"true\">*<\/span><\/label><input type=\"email\" id=\"wpforms-53480-field_1\" class=\"wpforms-field-large wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][1]\" spellcheck=\"false\" aria-errormessage=\"wpforms-53480-field_1-error\" required><\/div>\t\t<div id=\"wpforms-53480-field_4-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-text\" data-field-type=\"text\" data-field-id=\"4\">\n\t\t\t<label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-53480-field_4\">Email Permalink Post<\/label>\n\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" id=\"wpforms-53480-field_4\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][4]\">\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div id=\"wpforms-53480-field_2-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden\" data-field-id=\"2\"><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-53480-field_2\" name=\"wpforms[fields][2]\" value=\"Mapo tofu, the authentic way (&#40635;&#23110;&#35910;&#33104;)\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-53480-field_3-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden\" data-field-id=\"3\"><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-53480-field_3\" name=\"wpforms[fields][3]\" value=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/\"><\/div><script>\n\t\t\t\t( function() {\n\t\t\t\t\tconst style = document.createElement( 'style' );\n\t\t\t\t\tstyle.appendChild( document.createTextNode( '#wpforms-53480-field_4-container { position: absolute !important; 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<\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">600<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">g<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">regular tofu<\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">soft or medium firm (see note 1)<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"2\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-1\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 teaspoon salt\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-1\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">teaspoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">salt<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-group\"><h4 class=\"wprm-recipe-group-name wprm-recipe-ingredient-group-name wprm-block-text-none\">For the sauce<\/h4><ul class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredients\"><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"4\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-2\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;2 tablespoon neutral cooking oil\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-2\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">2<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">neutral cooking oil<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"6\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-3\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;100 g minced beef, or pork\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-3\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">100<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">g<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">minced beef<\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">or pork<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"5\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-4\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 teaspoon minced ginger\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-4\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">teaspoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">minced ginger<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"8\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-5\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;2 tablespoon Sichuan chilli bean paste, see note 2\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-5\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">2<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-chilli-bean-paste\/\" class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-link\" target=\"_blank\">Sichuan chilli bean paste<\/a><\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">see note 2<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"9\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-6\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed and chopped\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-6\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/fermented-black-beans\/\" class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-link\" target=\"_blank\">fermented black beans<\/a><\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">rinsed and chopped<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"10\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-7\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 tablespoon ground chilli,  or chilli flakes (or to taste)\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-7\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">ground chilli<\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\"> or chilli flakes (or to taste)<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"11\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-8\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 tablespoon minced garlic\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-8\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">minced garlic<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"7\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-9\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-9\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/shaoxing-rice-wine\/\" class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-link\" target=\"_blank\">Shaoxing rice wine<\/a><\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"12\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-10\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;400 ml water, or unsalted stock\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-10\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">400<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">ml<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">water<\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">or unsalted stock<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"13\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-11\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;2 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 3 tablespoons water\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-11\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">2<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">tablespoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">cornstarch<\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">mixed with 3 tablespoons water<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-group\"><h4 class=\"wprm-recipe-group-name wprm-recipe-ingredient-group-name wprm-block-text-none\">You also need<\/h4><ul class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredients\"><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"16\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-12\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;&frac12; teaspoon ground Sichuan pepper, or to taste\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-12\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">&frac12;<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">teaspoon<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\"><a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-peppercorn\/\" class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-link\" target=\"_blank\">ground Sichuan pepper<\/a><\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">or to taste<\/span><\/li><li class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient\" style=\"list-style-type: none;\" data-uid=\"15\"><span class=\"wprm-checkbox-container\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wprm-checkbox-13\" class=\"wprm-checkbox\" aria-label=\"&nbsp;1 stalk  scallions, finely chopped\"><label for=\"wprm-checkbox-13\" class=\"wprm-checkbox-label\"><span class=\"sr-only screen-reader-text wprm-screen-reader-text\" data-nosnippet>&#9634; <\/span><\/label><\/span><span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-amount\">1<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-unit\">stalk <\/span> <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-name\">scallions<\/span>, <span class=\"wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes wprm-recipe-ingredient-notes-faded\">finely chopped<\/span><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div id=\"recipe-7739-instructions\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instructions-container wprm-recipe-7739-instructions-container wprm-block-text-normal\" data-recipe=\"7739\"><h3 id=\"recipe-instructions\" class=\"wprm-recipe-header wprm-recipe-instructions-header wprm-block-text-none wprm-align-left wprm-header-decoration-none wprm-header-has-actions\" style=\"\">Instructions&nbsp;<\/h3><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-group\"><h4 class=\"wprm-recipe-group-name wprm-recipe-instruction-group-name wprm-block-text-none\">Blanch<\/h4><ul class=\"wprm-recipe-instructions\"><li id=\"wprm-recipe-7739-step-0-0\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction\" style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-text\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Cut the tofu into 2.5cm\/1 inch cubes. Gently slide them into a wok\/pot filled with water. Add the salt. Bring the water to a boil then simmer for 1 minute. Drain the tofu and set it aside.<\/span><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-group\"><h4 class=\"wprm-recipe-group-name wprm-recipe-instruction-group-name wprm-block-text-none\">Fry<\/h4><ul class=\"wprm-recipe-instructions\"><li id=\"wprm-recipe-7739-step-1-0\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction\" style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-text\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Heat up an empty wok until hot then add the oil. Put in minced meat, along with minced ginger. Stir fry over high heat until the meat becomes pale.<\/span><\/div><\/li><li id=\"wprm-recipe-7739-step-1-1\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction\" style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-text\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Add Sichuan chilli bean paste, fermented black beans, chilli powder\/flakes and minced garlic. Fry until fragrant.<\/span><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-group\"><h4 class=\"wprm-recipe-group-name wprm-recipe-instruction-group-name wprm-block-text-none\">Braise<\/h4><ul class=\"wprm-recipe-instructions\"><li id=\"wprm-recipe-7739-step-2-0\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction\" style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-text\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Pour in Shaoxing rice wine and water (or unsalted stock). Bring to a boil then gently slide in the tofu. Leave to boil for about 5 minutes (uncovered).<\/span><\/div><\/li><li id=\"wprm-recipe-7739-step-2-1\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction\" style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-text\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Turn the heat down to medium. Add half of the cornstarch water mixture (make sure to stir it well beforehand). Leave to simmer for 10 seconds or so, then pour in the remaining half.<\/span><\/div><\/li><li id=\"wprm-recipe-7739-step-2-2\" class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction\" style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\"><div class=\"wprm-recipe-instruction-text\"><span style=\"display: block;\">Once the sauce becomes just thick enough to coat the spatula, add ground Sichuan pepper and chopped scallions. Give everything a gentle mix then turn off the heat immediately. Serve it hot with <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/jasmine-rice-on-stove\/\">plain steamed rice<\/a>.<\/span><\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div id=\"recipe-7739-notes\" class=\"wprm-recipe-notes-container wprm-block-text-normal\"><h3 class=\"wprm-recipe-header wprm-recipe-notes-header wprm-block-text-none wprm-align-left wprm-header-decoration-none\" style=\"\">Notes<\/h3><div class=\"wprm-recipe-notes\"><span style=\"display: block;\">1. Classic Mapo tofu calls for regular tofu which comes in pressed blocks and is usually soaked in water. <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;Silken tofu (&#32482;&#35910;&#33104;), a type of unpressed tofu that coagulates directly in its container, isn&rsquo;t a traditional choice but acceptable as a substitute. In this case, choose medium-firm or firm silken tofu and avoid the soft version.<\/span><\/span><div class=\"wprm-spacer\"><\/div>\n<span style=\"display: block;\">2. Different brands of <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/sichuan-chilli-bean-paste\/\">Sichuan chilli bean paste<\/a> (aka spicy doubanjiang) may vary in saltiness, spiciness and texture. Adjust the quantity accordingly. I always use Pixian Douban (&#37099;&#21439;&#35910;&#29923;), a well-known variety, for this dish.<\/span><div class=\"wprm-spacer\"><\/div>\n<span style=\"display: block;\">3. In terms of the level of hotness and numbing sensation, this recipe is not adapted for non-Sichuanese tastes. You might find it too pungent if you are not accustomed to it. Please feel free to alter the quantity of ground chilli (chilli flakes) and ground Sichuan pepper. You may also add a little sugar to balance the spiciness as well as the saltiness.<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\t<div class=\"cwp-food-privatenotes\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wprm-private-notes-wrapper\"><h3 class=\"wprm-recipe-header wprm-recipe-private-notes-header wprm-block-text-bold wprm-align-left wprm-header-decoration-none\" style=\"\">Your Recipe Notes<\/h3><div class=\"wprm-internal-container wprm-internal-container-private-notes\" style=\"padding: 0px;border-radius: 0px;\"><div class=\"wprm-private-notes-container wprm-block-text-normal\" data-recipe=\"7739\"><div class=\"wprm-private-notes-placeholder\"><a href=\"#\" role=\"button\">&#9997;&#65039; Write here<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wprm-private-notes-user\"><\/div><textarea class=\"wprm-private-notes-input\" aria-label=\"Your own private notes about this recipe\"><\/textarea><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"cwp-food-nutrition\">\n\t\t<div id=\"recipe-7739-nutrition\" class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-shortcode-container\"><h3 class=\"wprm-recipe-header wprm-recipe-nutrition-header wprm-block-text-none wprm-align-left wprm-header-decoration-none\" style=\"\">Nutrition<\/h3><div class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-container wprm-nutrition-label-container-simple wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-serving_size\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Serving: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">1<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">serving<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-calories\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Calories: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">584<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">kcal<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-carbohydrates\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Carbohydrates: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">16<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-protein\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Protein: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">40<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-fat\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Fat: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">40<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-saturated_fat\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Saturated Fat: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">7<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-polyunsaturated_fat\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Polyunsaturated Fat: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">12<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-monounsaturated_fat\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Monounsaturated Fat: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">8<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-trans_fat\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Trans Fat: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">1<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-cholesterol\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Cholesterol: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">36<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">mg<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-sodium\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Sodium: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">1164<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">mg<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-potassium\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Potassium: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">278<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">mg<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-fiber\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Fiber: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">8<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-sugar\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Sugar: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">3<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">g<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-vitamin_a\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Vitamin A: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">1246<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">IU<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-vitamin_c\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Vitamin C: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">2<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">mg<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-calcium\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Calcium: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">396<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">mg<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\"> | <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-container-iron\"><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-label  wprm-block-text-normal\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--foreground)\">Iron: <\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-value\" style=\"color: #333333\">2<\/span><span class=\"wprm-nutrition-label-text-nutrition-unit\" style=\"color: #333333\">mg<\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wprm-call-to-action wprm-call-to-action-simple\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--background);background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--tertiary);margin: 0px;padding-top: 24px;padding-bottom: 24px;\"><span class=\"wprm-recipe-icon wprm-call-to-action-icon\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 58 55\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M28.6585 6.63738e-06C29.42 -0.00194974 30.1166 0.428717 30.4551 1.11083L38.2458 16.8082L55.6197 19.3416C56.3719 19.4513 56.997 19.978 57.2326 20.7008C57.4682 21.4236 57.2736 22.2175 56.7304 22.7494L44.0942 35.1247L47.0955 52.3206C47.227 53.0736 46.9177 53.8356 46.2987 54.2841C45.6797 54.7325 44.8592 54.7889 44.1847 54.4294L28.6638 46.1568L13.1462 54.4293C12.4713 54.7891 11.6503 54.7325 11.0312 54.2834C10.412 53.8343 10.1033 53.0714 10.2357 52.3182L13.2589 35.1247L0.601897 22.7506C0.0578633 22.2188 -0.137261 21.4243 0.098489 20.7009C0.334239 19.9775 0.960023 19.4506 1.71298 19.3414L19.1818 16.8083L26.8677 1.12004C27.2027 0.436202 27.897 0.00196286 28.6585 6.63738e-06Z\" fill=\"white\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>\n<\/span> <span class=\"wprm-call-to-action-text-container\"><span class=\"wprm-call-to-action-header\" style=\"color: var(--wp--preset--color--background);\">Like this? <a href=\"#comment\">Rate and comment<\/a> below!<\/span><span class=\"wprm-call-to-action-text\"><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p><em>Note: This is a revised version of my post on Mapo tofu. It includes more tips, substitute ideas and FAQs. New images and a video are also included.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Tender tofu cooked in an umami and spicy sauce, accompanied by minced meat, Mapo tofu is one of the tastiest ways to prepare this healthy ingredient.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":21115,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":false,"_modified_date":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_wp_convertkit_post_meta":{"form":"-1","landing_page":"","tag":"0","restrict_content":"0"},"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1582,1578,1707,142],"tags":[182,195,125,128,14,162,126],"class_list":{"2":"type-post"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Mapo tofu, the authentic way (\u9ebb\u5a46\u8c46\u8150) - Red House Spice<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Tender tofu cooked in an aromatic and spicy sauce, accompanied by minced meat. This recipe shows you how to make Mapo tofu the authentic way.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Mapo tofu, the authentic way (\u9ebb\u5a46\u8c46\u8150) - Red House Spice\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Tender tofu cooked in an aromatic and spicy sauce, accompanied by minced meat. 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It is a key ingredient for the classic version of Mapo tofu. However, adding a little black pepper wouldn\u2019t ruin the dish with the presence of other key seasonings.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/#faq-question-1653841981992","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/#faq-question-1653841981992","name":"Q: I can\u2019t find Sichuan chilli bean paste. How to substitute?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<strong>A:<\/strong> There isn\u2019t a substitute but you can use the following ideas to create a nice-tasting dish (despite not being authentic).<br\/>a) Use homemade <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/black-bean-sauce\/\">spicy black bean sauce<\/a>,  or commercial ones like Laoganma black bean chilli sauce (\u8001\u5e72\u5988\u98ce\u5473\u8c46\u8c49). In this case, you can omit fermented black beans in the recipe.<br\/>b) Mix an Asian fermented bean paste (e.g. Chinese yellow bean sauce, Japanese miso, Korean doenjang) with <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/chinese-chilli-oil\/\">Chinese chilli oil<\/a> or a hot sauce of your choice.<br\/><strong>N.B.<\/strong> You may need to adjust the quantity based on the saltiness of individual condiments.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/#faq-question-1653842049962","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/#faq-question-1653842049962","name":"Q: My tolerance for hot food isn\u2019t very high but I like the flavour of this dish. How do I adapt?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: Please feel free to reduce the quantity of ground chilli\/chilli flakes. Or, choose a variety that looks vibrantly red but doesn\u2019t taste hot (e.g. paprika). Sichuan chilli bean paste has medium heat so use a little less if you wish (add a little <a href=\"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/soy-sauce\/\">soy sauce<\/a> to make up the saltiness). Another way is to add some sugar to neutralise the hotness.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/#faq-question-1653842071256","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/mapo-tofu-authentic-way\/#faq-question-1653842071256","name":"Q: Can I use this recipe to cook other ingredients instead of tofu?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: You surely can! I\u2019ve used the same set of seasonings and methods to cook diced chicken thighs and vegetables such as aubergines, king oyster mushrooms, cauliflowers, etc.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/mapo-tofu-in-a-plate-scaled.jpg","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p87UTD-pI","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1594","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1594"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1594\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21115"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1594"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1594"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/redhousespice.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1594"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}