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Mild Mapo Tofu Recipe

Mild Mapo Tofu Recipe: Quick, Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes

A quick and easy Mild Mapo Tofu recipe perfect for busy nights, featuring creamy tofu in a savory, mildly spicy sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Sichuan
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Silken or soft tofu Cut into ½ to 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher salt For blanching the tofu
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Cooking oil High-smoking point like canola or vegetable
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese chili pepper flakes Adjust according to heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn Adjust according to heat tolerance
  • 2 tablespoons Spicy broad bean paste (la doubanjiang) Seek authentic 'Pixian'
  • 1 tablespoon Minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon Minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Chicken bouillon powder Optional
For Thickeners and Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Mixed with water to thicken
  • 1 teaspoon Toasted sesame oil Optional
  • 2 tablespoons Green onion Sliced for garnish
For the Sauce Base
  • 1 cup Water or stock Forms the base of the sauce

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Tofu: Drain silken or soft tofu and cut into cubes. Bring salted water to a boil, blanch tofu for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a skillet, add chili pepper flakes and Sichuan peppercorns. Toast for 15-30 seconds.
  3. Cook Meat (optional): If using ground meat, add it to the pan now and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add Seasonings: Add minced ginger, garlic, and broad bean paste. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Pour in water or stock and blanched tofu. Stir gently and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch with water and gradually add to the pan while stirring. Cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Finishing Touches: Drizzle sesame oil, stir, and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with rice or sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or stock.

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