Mapo Tofu: The Sichuan Magic That Makes Your Tongue Dance

What is Mapo Tofu?
A legendary dish from Chengdu, Sichuan.
One of the world’s favourite Chinese dishes.
The perfect combination of tofu and meat sauce.

Interesting story behind the name
Created by an old lady surnamed Chen in the Qing Dynasty.
She was known as “Chen Ma Po” because of the pockmarks on her face.
Hence the name of her tofu dish.
It’s been around for more than 100 years.

The secret weapon to conquer the world
Numb: The electric sensation of Sichuan peppercorns.
Spicy: the warm embrace of bean paste and chilli.
Hot: the warmth of a dish that is kept at a high temperature.
Fragrance: The rich aroma of minced meat and black beans.
Crisp: The crunchy texture of the stir-fried minced pork.
Tenderness: tofu is as soft and creamy as pudding.

Authentic ingredient choices
Soft tofu is the first choice.
Sichuan Pixian bean paste is key.
The peppercorns need to be fresh to retain their numbness.
Minced beef is more traditional than pork.

Authentic ingredient choices
Soft tofu is the first choice.
Sichuan Pixian bean paste is key.
The peppercorns need to be fresh to retain their numbness.
Minced beef is more traditional than pork.

Why do foreigners love it too?
The rich layers of flavour are surprising.
Vegetarians can use mushrooms instead of minced meat.
Perfect with rice, bite after bite.
Natural pleasure from the spiciness.

Spiciness is completely under your control
Reduce chillies and peppercorns to make a milder version.
Retaining the spiciness but reducing the spiciness is possible.
Many restaurants offer a choice of spiciness.
Make it at home and feel free to adjust.

Best way to enjoy
Serve immediately and feel the temperature change.
A great combination with white rice.
Try enjoying it with a spoon with the sauce.
Serve with cold beer or green tea to quench the spice.

Variations around the world
Japan adds sweetness to reduce the spiciness.
Korea adds chilli to make a spicier version.
Pork is often used instead of beef in the United States.
Each country has localised innovations.

Healthy Tips
Tofu provides high quality vegetable protein.
Chilli is rich in vitamin C.
Controlling the amount of oil used makes for healthier cooking.
Peppercorns are said to aid digestion.

How to order the perfect Mapo Tofu
Specify the desired spiciness level at the restaurant.
Ask for extra peppercorns to add numbness.
Confirm whether to use beef or pork.
Choose tender or firm tofu texture.

Easy to make at home
All ingredients are available in Asian supermarkets.
Use ready-made Mapo Tofu Seasoning Kit.
There are many instructional guides on video websites.
Follow the recipe for the first time.

Cultural significance beyond food
An outstanding representative of Sichuan cuisine culture.
An important messenger for the internationalisation of Chinese food.
A bridge between Eastern and Western food cultures.
The magic of turning simple ingredients into delicious flavours.