Authentic Szechuan Mapo Tofu

Authentic Szechuan Mapo Tofu is a classic Chinese dish that is known for its spicy and numbing flavor. This dish is made with soft tofu, ground pork, Szechuan peppercorns, and a variety of other flavorful ingredients. It is a perfect dish for those who love spicy food and want to experience the authentic taste of Szechuan cuisine.

Ingredients (serves 4):

- 1 block of soft tofu (14 oz)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 2 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns
- 2 tbsp chili bean paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fermented black beans
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Salt to taste

Cooking Tips:

- Use soft tofu for this recipe as it has a delicate texture that complements the spicy and savory flavors of the dish.
- Szechuan peppercorns are a key ingredient in this dish. They have a unique numbing flavor that adds depth to the dish.
- Chili bean paste is another important ingredient that gives the dish its signature spicy flavor. Look for it in Asian grocery stores or online.
- Fermented black beans add a salty and umami flavor to the dish. You can find them in the Asian section of your grocery store.

Instructions:

1. Cut the tofu into small cubes and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and 2 tbsp of water to make a slurry.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Szechuan peppercorns and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the ground pork and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
5. Add the chili bean paste, soy sauce, fermented black beans, ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Add the tofu and gently stir to combine.
8. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the tofu is heated through.
9. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir gently until the sauce thickens.
10. Season with salt to taste.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with steamed rice.
Appearance and Taste:
Authentic Szechuan Mapo Tofu is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is sure to impress. The soft tofu cubes are coated in a spicy and savory sauce that is bursting with flavor. The dish has a beautiful red color from the chili bean paste and Szechuan peppercorns. The taste is a perfect balance of spicy, salty, and umami flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Type of Dish: Spicy Tofu
Main Ingredients: Soft Tofu, Ground Pork, Szechuan Peppercorns