Vegan Mapo Tofu
A spicy and fragrant dish featuring silken tofu in a rich and savory sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Mapo Tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that can easily be adapted to a whole-food, plant-based vegan version without sacrificing flavor.
This recipe utilizes tofu and a blend of spices to create a deliciously spicy and aromatic dish that is perfect for any meal.
At vegancooking.recipes, we believe in making plant-based cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone, so join us in exploring this delightful recipe!
What Makes This Recipe Special
- ✓Made with simple, plant-based ingredients that are easy to find
- ✓No animal products - completely vegan and cruelty-free
- ✓Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike
- ✓Delicious results that everyone will love, vegan or not
Ingredients & Substitutions
Silken tofu works best for this recipe due to its soft texture, but you can also use firm tofu if desired. Doubanjiang adds a unique flavor and heat – you can substitute with chili paste if unavailable. For gluten-free options, ensure to use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Tips & Notes
- •For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar at the end.
- •If you enjoy more texture, toss in some mushrooms or bell peppers along with the tofu.
Recipe Variations
- •Add vegetables like bell peppers or baby corn for extra nutrition.
- •Substitute tofu with tempeh for a different texture and flavor.
Storage & Freezing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mapo Tofu ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove. The flavors will deepen and improve after resting.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of doubanjiang used. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor.
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Vegan Mapo Tofu
A spicy and fragrant dish featuring silken tofu in a rich and savory sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Nutrition (per serving)
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Start by pressing the silken tofu gently to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and set aside.
- 2
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the doubanjiang and crushed Sichuan peppercorns, cooking for another 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- 5
Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 6
Gently add the tofu cubes to the skillet, being careful not to break them. Allow them to simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes.
- 7
Stir in the brown sugar and then add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, stirring gently.
- 8
Let the mixture cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- 9
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
- 10
Serve hot over cooked rice.
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