Easy Mapo Tofu Recipe

Mapo Tofu is a comforting, saucy stir fry dish that originated in Sichuan cuisine but has also become a popular staple in Japanese kitchens. The Japanese version is less oily and not as fiery, but it still delivers big flavor with its combination of chili bean paste, soy sauce, and savory ground meat. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this dish is best served over steamed rice and can easily be turned into a one-pot meal by adding vegetables like bok choy, pak choy, or even grated carrots.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, finely chopped or minced
  • 1/4 cup scallions/shallots, minced
  • 5 oz (150 g) ground pork (or beef or chicken)
  • 2 tsp chili bean sauce, adjust to taste
  • 12 oz (300 g) firm tofu, cut into 1 cm / 1/2″ cubes

Sauce

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp chicken or vegetable stock powder
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp sake or Chinese cooking wine
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a splash of water, then add the remaining sauce ingredients and mix until smooth.

Cook the Base

Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Add garlic and ginger, stir fry for 10 seconds, then add scallions and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the Meat

Toss in the ground pork and stir fry until browned, breaking up clumps as it cooks. Stir in the chili bean sauce and cook for about 30 seconds.

Combine with Tofu

Gently add the tofu cubes along with the prepared sauce. Stir carefully and let it cook until the sauce thickens and coats everything, about 1–2 minutes.

Serve

Spoon the saucy Mapo Tofu over bowls of steamed rice and enjoy hot.

Conclusion

This Japanese-style Mapo Tofu is the perfect quick meal, ready in just 12 minutes while delivering layers of bold, savory flavors. Lightly spicy, saucy, and satisfying, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Pair it with a bowl of rice and some greens for a complete, comforting dinner.

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