Mapo Tofu is a vibrant dish bursting with flavors that can transport you straight to the streets of Sichuan. With its silky tofu and spicy sauce, this meal is both comforting and exciting. If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, these recipes are just what you need!
Classic Mapo Tofu


Authentic Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Five spice powder, ground pork, soy sauce, homemade chili oil, ginger Total Time: 25 mins.

Mapo Tofu, the Authentic Way (麻婆豆腐) from Red House Spice
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Fermented black beans, minced beef, chilli bean paste, ginger, rice wine Total Time: fermented black beans, minced beef, chilli bean paste, ginger, rice wine.

Mapo Tofu from The Woks of Life
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Spicy bean sauce, ground pork, silken tofu, sesame oil, chicken broth Total Time: 35 mins.
This classic version of Mapo Tofu features a rich, spicy sauce that perfectly complements the soft, silky tofu. The cooking technique focuses on stir-frying the ingredients to bring out their flavors before simmering everything together for that delicious finish. The result is a dish that’s both a little spicy and deeply savory.
- 1 block of soft tofu
- 200g ground pork (or beef)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
This dish is popular for its mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors. The ground meat adds a hearty element, while the tofu soaks up all that delicious sauce, making each bite a little piece of heaven. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be on your table in about 30 minutes!
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Mapo Tofu – the original Chinese recipe
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Classic Mapo Tofu Recipe
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Vegetarian Mapo Tofu

<pIf you’re looking for a meat-free option that still packs a punch, this vegetarian Mapo Tofu is just for you! With a focus on umami-rich mushrooms and a touch of spice, it delivers all the flavors you love without any meat. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic while sticking to your dietary preferences.
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 200g shiitake mushrooms, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Doubanjiang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
This recipe is a hit among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The mushrooms add a delightful texture and depth of flavor that mimics the richness of meat, making it a satisfying meal for anyone. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a comforting bowl of this vegetarian delight!
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Spicy Garlic Mapo Tofu


Mapo Tofu from Serious Eats
Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: Ground beef, silken tofu, dark soy sauce, roasted chili oil, greens Total Time: 20 min.

My Mom’s Saucy Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork from Cooking Therapy
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Spicy bean sauce, oyster sauce, ground pork, silken tofu, chili garlic sauce Total Time: 35 min.

Mapo Tofu from The Woks of Life
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Spicy bean sauce, ground pork, silken tofu, sesame oil, chicken broth Total Time: 35 min.
For those who crave an extra kick, this spicy garlic Mapo Tofu will light up your taste buds! The combination of garlic and chilies creates a bold flavor that is nothing short of addictive. This version uses a simple stir-fry technique, allowing the spices to bloom beautifully.
- 1 block of soft tofu
- 200g ground chicken or turkey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoons Doubanjiang
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
This dish is not just about heat; it’s about layering flavors that create a sensational experience. The garlic and chili paste harmonize beautifully, making each bite a thrilling explosion of taste. Perfect for spice enthusiasts, this recipe is sure to become a favorite on your dinner rotation!
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How To Make Mapo Tofu – Marion's Kitchen
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Deliciously Spicy Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe
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Crispy Mapo Tofu

Authentic Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.
If you love a bit of crunch with your meals, this crispy Mapo Tofu will become your new go-to. By pan-frying the tofu before adding it to the sauce, you create a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft inside. It’s a fun twist on the traditional dish that adds a satisfying texture.
- 1 block of firm tofu, cut into cubes
- 200g ground beef or pork
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Doubanjiang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
This crispy version is popular because it adds a fun element to the dish that keeps everyone coming back for more. The crunchy tofu provides a satisfying bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich, spicy sauce. You’ll find it hard to resist this unique take on a classic!