Mapo Tofu: A Classic, Spicy-Savory Sichuan Comfort Dish (Easy Home Recipe!)

Ingredient Overview (and Easy Substitutes)

Tofu (300g):
Silken or soft tofu for classic texture (cubed).

• Swap: Firm tofu works for a heartier bite.

Pork (200g, minced):
Lean ground pork soaks up the sauce perfectly.

• Swap: Use ground chicken, turkey, beef, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Onion (50g):
Adds sweetness and aroma, balancing heat and savoriness.

Oil (2 tbsp):
Any neutral oil for sautéing; peanut or canola work great.

Soy Sauce (2 tbsp):
For depth and umami.

Chili Paste (1 tsp):
Sichuan-style if you have it; chili garlic sauce, sambal oelek, or sriracha also work.

• Adjust spice: Use less for mild, more for spicy.

Salt (1 tsp):
To balance and bring all the flavors together.

Optional Enhancements:

• 1–2 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground, for that famous tingling “mala” flavor.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced, for more depth.

• 1 tsp ginger, grated, for added warmth.

• Chopped scallions and sesame oil for garnish.

Nutrition Facts for Mapo Tofu (Per Serving, Serves 2)

• Calories: ~295 kcal

• Protein: 19g

• Carbohydrates: 9g

• Fat: 19g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: ~1200mg (varies with soy sauce and chili paste)

• Nutrition Highlights:

  • High in protein

  • Balanced plant and animal ingredients

  • Suitable for gluten-free with swaps

  • Naturally dairy-free

(Nutrition estimated; actual values will vary with brands and portion size.)

Step-by-Step Instructions (So Simple!)

1. Sauté Pork and Onion

• Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high.

• Add minced pork and chopped onion.

• Sauté for about 5 minutes, breaking up the pork, until it’s cooked through and the onion is soft.

2. Add Sauce and Tofu

• Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp chili paste, and 1 tsp salt.

• Gently add the cubed tofu (300g) to the skillet.

• Carefully stir to coat everything—avoid breaking up tofu too much.

3. Simmer

• Lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

• Allow sauce to thicken a little and tofu to soak up the flavors.

• If desired, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, or 1 tsp cornstarch slurry to make it glossy and rich.

4. Serve Hot

• Spoon the Mapo Tofu over steamed rice in bowls.

• Garnish with chopped scallions, a drizzle of sesame oil, and extra chili if you like it hot!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Mapo Tofu

• Gently Handle Tofu: Silken tofu breaks easily—add at the end and stir gently.

• Sichuan Peppercorns: Toast and grind them for that unmistakable authentic aroma and numbing punch.

• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust soy sauce, salt, and chili to your liking—a perfect Mapo Tofu is spicy, salty, and deeply savory.

• Go Vegetarian: Use firm tofu and plant-based meat or mushrooms.

• Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat well—the flavors deepen overnight.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Rice Bowls: Serve over fresh hot white rice or brown rice for a complete meal.

• With Noodles: Ladle Mapo Tofu over lo mein or rice noodles for a spicy noodle bowl.

• On Greens: Serve on a bed of steamed bok choy or spinach for a low-carb alternative.

• Hot Pot Night: Add Mapo Tofu to a Chinese-style soup or hot pot spread.

• Street Food Style: Spoon into lettuce wraps for a spicy, protein-packed snack.

Mapo Tofu FAQ

Is Mapo Tofu very spicy?
It can be! Control the heat by adjusting the amount and type of chili paste.

Can I use chicken or beef instead of pork?
Yes, both are delicious, or skip meat entirely for a vegetarian version.

What’s the best tofu for Mapo Tofu?
Silken or soft tofu is traditional for its creamy texture, but firm tofu can be used for easier handling.

Is Mapo Tofu gluten-free?
Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce, and check that your chili paste is gluten-free.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Best eaten fresh, but leftovers will keep in the fridge up to 3 days.