If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that will warm you up on chilly days, then this “Mapo Tofu Without Meat” recipe is the perfect choice. Originating from the Sichuan province in China, mapo tofu is a classic dish known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This vegetarian version replaces the traditional ground meat with tofu, making it a delicious and nutritious option for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal. Packed with protein and rich in umami flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation.
Mapo Tofu Without Meat
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 2 tablespoons doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed (optional)
– Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the tofu. Cut the tofu into small cubes and set aside. Blot the tofu cubes with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help them crisp up when cooking.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Add the doubanjiang (spicy bean paste) to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and ginger. Let it cook for another minute to release its flavors.
4. Add the tofu cubes to the skillet and gently stir to coat them with the spicy mixture. Be careful not to break up the tofu cubes.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while stirring continuously to thicken the sauce.
7. Add the chopped green onions and crushed Sichuan peppercorns (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute to marry the flavors.
8. Remove the skillet from heat. Taste the mapo tofu and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more soy sauce or sesame oil.
9. Serve the mapo tofu hot over steamed rice and garnish with additional chopped green onions for a pop of freshness.
Enjoy your homemade mapo tofu without meat, a delicious and vegetarian-friendly twist on a classic Chinese dish. The combination of tender tofu, spicy bean paste, and aromatic seasonings will surely delight your taste buds and leave you feeling cozy and satisfied. Experiment with the spice level to suit your preference, and feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables for added texture. This dish is perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a comforting solo meal. Cheers to flavorful meatless cooking!
