Mapo tofu is popular as the most famous Sichuan dish. The original Mapo tofu has a strong taste and a unique spicy taste. The feeling of this special Sichuan dish is often described by local chefs as "hemp, spicy, spicy, fragrant, tender, soft, fragrant and crisp". These key characteristics are considered as the definition of authentic Mapo tofu. Nowadays, Mapo tofu with real flavor is more and more easy to find outside China, but it is only in some Sichuan restaurants that they have not adapted to the tastes of non-Sichuanese. It is said that Mapo tofu was introduced into Japan in the form of packaged fast food.

How to make Mapo tofu

condiments

1 piece of tofu (300g)

120g minced pork

3 tablespoons Sichuan spicy bean paste (preferably produced in Pixian County)

2 tablespoons Chili powder

2 tablespoons cooking oil

3 tablespoons Chili oil

1 tbsp Sichuan Zanthoxylum Bunge (roasted and ground into powder)

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon fermented black beans (washed and mashed)

2 leeks or shallots (cut into 20mm long)

2 cloves of garlic (chopped)

1/2 glasses of water

Salt seasoning

Method:

Step 1. Cut tofu into cubes and drain for later use.

Step two. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, and pour in cooking oil and Chili oil. When the oil becomes moderately hot, add chopped garlic, minced pork and spicy bean paste, and stir-fry until the pork is half cooked.

Step three. Add Chili powder, soy sauce and fermented black beans and stir-fry until fragrant.

Step four. Add tofu and water; Stir gently so that the tofu (don't break them) and the sauce are fully mixed. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes on low heat until the sauce thickens.

Step five. Add roasted pepper and chopped green onion. Stir gently and mix well. This dish is ready to serve.

Cooking notes

1. In order to reduce the spicy taste of this dish, use less roasted pepper, Chili powder and Chili oil. Adjust them to suit your taste.

2. Most Mapo tofu served in China restaurants in other countries has adapted to local tastes; The degree of spicy is greatly reduced.