Flavorful Mapo Tofu Recipes Hawaii Style To Savor

Hey y’all! Today, we’re diving into a savory dish that packs a whole lot of flavor and warmth — Mapo Tofu. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also perfect for a comforting dinner. So, let’s get started and make something special to share with those we love!

Mapo Tofu

This Mapo Tofu is rich with spicy, numbing flavors that’ll dance on your taste buds. It’s a wonderful combination of silky tofu and a medley of scrumptious spices. Let’s get cookin’!

Ingredients

2 blocks of firm tofu, drained and cubed
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound ground pork (or you can use ground beef or mushrooms for a vegetarian option)
2 tablespoons chili bean paste
1 tablespoon black bean paste
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 green onions, chopped
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns (optional, if ya want that extra kick)
Steamed rice, for serving

Instructions

Start by heating that oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the ground pork (or your veggie alternative). Cook until it’s browned and crumbly.
Add in the minced garlic and ginger, letting that aroma fill the kitchen. Stir it up and let it cook for about a minute.
Next, stir in the chili bean paste and black bean paste. This is where the magic happens — it’s gonna smell mouthwaterin’!
Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer. If you’re using the Szechuan peppercorns, add ‘em in now. Let the flavors melt together for about 5-7 minutes.
Gently add the cubed tofu into the skillet. Make sure you’re careful not to break it up too much; we want those beautiful cubes to stay intact!
Now, drizzle the cornstarch mixture in while stirring gently. This will help thicken the sauce to that perfect consistency.
Let it all simmer for another 5 minutes. Once it’s thick and bubbly, sprinkle that chopped green onion on top.
Serve hot over steamed rice and enjoy the deliciousness you’ve created!

There you have it! A warm bowl of Mapo Tofu that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and invite smiles all around. Share some with family or friends or just enjoy it cozy on your own. Happy cooking!