[Sizzling Hot Sichuan Mapo Tofu with Extra Kick]
Mapo tofu is one of the most iconic dishes from Sichuan cuisine, renowned for its spicy and numbing flavors. This version, however, takes it to another level by adding an extra kick of heat that will surely make your taste buds dance. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this sizzling hot Mapo tofu, complete with detailed instructions and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
- 2 blocks of firm tofu (about 350g each)
- 2 tablespoons of fermented black beans
- 1 tablespoon of chili bean paste
- 1 teaspoon of ground Sichuan peppercorns
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of cooking oil
- Scallions, chopped, for garnish
- Cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, toasted, for garnish
Preparation
Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare all your ingredients. Cut the tofu into cubes and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the tofu brown better when fried. Set aside.
In a small bowl, mix together the fermented black beans, chili bean paste, ground Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. This will be your spice paste. Set aside.
Next, in a separate bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water and set aside.
Cooking Process
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes and fry them until they’re golden brown on all sides. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Remove the fried tofu and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the spice paste and stir well to combine. Cook for another minute until the spices become aromatic.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Gradually stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Gently stir in the fried tofu cubes, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb some of the flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, sugar, or chili bean paste according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Mapo tofu is ready, it’s time to plate it up. Transfer the tofu and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds for added color and aroma. Serve immediately while the dish is still hot and sizzling.
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, which helps balance the spiciness. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or pickled vegetables to complement the flavors.
Tips for Success
- Choose firm tofu for this recipe as it holds its shape better during frying and cooking.
- To get the best flavor from your spices, toast the Sichuan peppercorns briefly in a dry pan before grinding them. This enhances their fragrance.
- If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili bean paste or omit the Sichuan peppercorns.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add diced pork or beef to the dish. Simply brown the meat before adding the garlic and ginger.
- Ensure that your tofu is thoroughly dried before frying to achieve crispy edges.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Conclusion
Creating a sizzling hot Sichuan Mapo tofu with an extra kick is a rewarding culinary experience. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite among spicy food enthusiasts. Follow these steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the fiery journey through your taste buds!
