Mapo Tofu Recipe
HK$128
Aberdeen Street Social's Mapo Tofu is an authentic representation of Sichuan cuisine's bold flavors. Silky soft tofu is gently braised in our signature spicy sauce made with doubanjiang (fermented bean paste), Sichuan peppercorns, and minced pork. The dish achieves the perfect balance of "ma" (numbing) and "la" (spicy) that defines classic Sichuan cooking.
Aberdeen Street Social Recipe
Our Mapo Tofu uses authentic Sichuan doubanjiang and the finest silken tofu, creating the perfect texture contrast that makes this dish legendary.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 400g silken tofu, cubed
- 100g ground pork
- 2 tbsp doubanjiang (fermented bean paste)
- 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns, ground
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
Sauce & Seasoning:
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Chili oil to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Tofu: Gently cut silken tofu into 2cm cubes. Blanch in lightly salted boiling water for 2 minutes to firm up. Drain carefully.
- Cook Pork: Heat oil in wok over medium heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned and crispy, breaking it into small pieces.
- Build Flavor Base: Add garlic, ginger, and doubanjiang to the pork. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquid: Pour in chicken stock, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Tofu: Carefully add tofu cubes to the sauce. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Thicken and Finish: Add cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce. Sprinkle with ground Sichuan peppercorns, drizzle with sesame oil and chili oil. Garnish with green onions.
Chef's Tips from Aberdeen Street Social
Tofu Handling
Handle silken tofu very gently. Blanching helps it hold its shape during cooking without breaking apart.
Doubanjiang Quality
Use high-quality Pixian doubanjiang for authentic flavor. The fermented bean paste is the soul of this dish.
Sichuan Peppercorns
Toast and grind Sichuan peppercorns fresh for maximum numbing effect. Add at the very end to preserve their potency.