Zesty Mapo Tofu

Zesty Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Spicy and Flavorful Delight
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that packs a punch of flavor? Look no further than this zesty Mapo Tofu recipe! This dish is a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Ingredients (serves 4):

- 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon of Sichuan peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
- 1/2 pound of ground pork
- 2 tablespoons of chili bean paste
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of chopped scallions

Cooking Tips:

- Use firm tofu to prevent it from breaking apart during cooking.
- Toast the Sichuan peppercorns in a dry pan before grinding them to release their flavor.
- Use a wok or a large skillet to cook the dish evenly.

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
3. Add the chili bean paste, soy sauce, and rice vinegar and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Add the cubed tofu and gently stir to combine.
6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add the mixture to the wok and stir until the sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.
Appearance and Taste:
Zesty Mapo Tofu is a spicy and flavorful dish that is sure to impress. The dish has a vibrant red color and a rich, savory aroma. The tofu is soft and silky, while the ground pork adds a meaty texture. The sauce is thick and coats the tofu and pork perfectly, with a tangy and spicy flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Type of Dish: Spicy Tofu
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Ground Pork, Chili Bean Paste