Mapo Tahu: A Spicy Tofu Delight
If you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine with a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting, look no further than Mapo Tahu, a beloved Chinese dish that features silken tofu and minced meat in a vibrant, spicy sauce. This version is simple yet packed with bold flavors that will impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Firm tofu | 5 small blocks, cut into cubes |
| Ground beef | 50 grams, finely chopped (can use a blender) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Ginger | 1 cm, grated |
| Sweet soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Ketchup | 1 tablespoon |
| Chili sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Bird’s eye chili | 1, thinly sliced |
| Shrimp broth or stock | 150 ml |
| Additional Seasoning: | |
| Sesame oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Green onions | 1 stalk, thinly sliced |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon, dissolved in a little water |
Instructions
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Marinate the Meat: Begin by marinating the finely chopped beef in Worcestershire sauce and sweet soy sauce for about 30 minutes. This step infuses the meat with flavor and tenderness.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the grated ginger and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Be careful not to let them burn, as this will affect the flavor of your dish.
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Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the pan, stirring frequently until it changes color and is fully cooked through, roughly 3-5 minutes.
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Combine Broth and Tofu: Pour in the shrimp broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, gently add the cubed tofu, followed by salt, sugar, ground black pepper, ketchup, chili sauce, and sliced bird’s eye chili. Stir gently to avoid breaking the tofu, and taste to adjust the seasoning as necessary.
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Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together, approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Finish the Dish: To finish, drizzle in the sesame oil and add the sliced green onions, then slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, ideally over steamed rice, to enjoy the rich and spicy flavors of this delicious Mapo Tahu. Garnish with additional green onions or chili slices if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimates)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Conclusion
This Mapo Tahu recipe combines the creamy texture of tofu with the savory depth of minced meat and spices, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. Its vibrant colors and spicy kick will not only excite your taste buds but also bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful dish!
