Authentic Mapo Tofu Recipe Vegetarian Style Made Easy

Mapo tofu is a beloved Sichuan classic known for its bold, spicy, and numbing flavors. Traditionally, it features ground pork and a rich chili bean paste sauce served over silky soft tofu.

However, this authentic mapo tofu recipe takes a vegetarian twist without sacrificing any of the dish’s vibrant character. By using mushrooms and plant-based ingredients, you can enjoy a deeply satisfying, spicy, and aromatic meal that’s perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Sichuan cuisine or trying mapo tofu for the first time, this recipe will guide you through every step to create a flavorful dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Expect a perfect balance of umami, heat, and the signature Sichuan peppercorn tingling sensation. Plus, it’s quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests.

Dive in and discover why this vegetarian mapo tofu will soon become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian mapo tofu recipe stands out for its authentic Sichuan flavors without relying on meat. It uses hearty mushrooms and fermented ingredients to replicate the traditional depth of flavor.

Perfectly tender tofu soaks up the spicy, savory sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The numbing heat from Sichuan peppercorns combined with chili bean paste delivers a true taste of Sichuan cuisine.

Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, making it accessible for vegetarians and vegans.

It’s also a quick recipe that requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something flavorful and wholesome. Once you try it, you might also enjoy checking out other comforting recipes like Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the addictive Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Ingredients

• 400g soft tofu (silken tofu works best)
• 150g shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fermented chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
• 1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 scallions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 150ml vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Optional: 1 tablespoon chili oil for extra heat

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or wok
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and chopping board
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Mortar and pestle or spice grinder (for Sichuan peppercorns)

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu: Drain the tofu and cut it into 2cm cubes. Set aside carefully to avoid breaking.
2. Toast and grind Sichuan peppercorns: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the peppercorns for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Grind them finely using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder. Set aside.
3. Cook the mushrooms: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in the wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped shiitake mushrooms and sauté until they release moisture and become browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add aromatics: Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the scallions to the mushrooms. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Incorporate fermented ingredients: Stir in the fermented chili bean paste and mashed fermented black beans. Cook for about 1 minute to release their aromas and flavors.
6. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sprinkle the sugar. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
7. Gently add tofu cubes: Carefully slide the tofu into the sauce. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors. Avoid stirring too vigorously to prevent breaking the tofu.
8. Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry and slowly drizzle it into the simmering sauce while gently stirring. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
9. Finish with peppercorns and chili oil: Sprinkle the ground Sichuan peppercorns over the dish. Add chili oil if using for extra heat. Toss gently to combine.
10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the green parts of the scallions on top. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips & Variations

For the best texture, use soft or silken tofu. Firm tofu can work but won’t absorb flavors as well.

If you want to add more protein, toss in some cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh along with the mushrooms. For an even more authentic experience, try using homemade fermented chili bean paste or buy a good quality brand from an Asian market.

Adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of chili bean paste and adding more or less chili oil. You can also swap shiitake mushrooms for oyster or cremini mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

For a less spicy but still flavorful version, reduce the doubanjiang and omit the chili oil. For a vegan-friendly dish, ensure your soy sauce and broth are vegan.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian mapo tofu pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or white rice to soak up that luscious sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach.

For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light cucumber salad or some pickled vegetables to balance the spice and heat. You might also enjoy it with other Asian-inspired dishes such as Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe or the flavorful Half Runner Beans Recipe.

Conclusion

Vegetarian mapo tofu offers a fantastic way to enjoy the bold, spicy, and numbing flavors of Sichuan cuisine without meat. This recipe captures the essence of the original with a rich, umami-packed sauce and soft tofu that melts in your mouth.

With just a handful of authentic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a vibrant, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this mapo tofu is sure to impress and delight. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spice levels and ingredients to make it your own.

For more comforting recipes, be sure to explore the Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs or the hearty Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to round out your culinary adventures.

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