Mapo tofu, ma'boy!

Up for a rich & hot protein double whammo dish? Try this Mapo Tofu!

This is an easy & flavorful dish with its signature red color and spicy taste from its use of the Sichuan peppercorn.
It is a popular traditional Chinese dish, hailing from Sichuan province.

"Mapo" in Chinese means 'pockmarked old woman'. It is said that this dish was invented by one who was nicknamed the same.

Here in the Lion City, there are numerous variations to Mapo dishes, like Mapo Eggplant, Mapo Noodles, etc. (i think i saw a Mapo Burger ad somewhere? 🤔) The possibilities are endless, I suppose! And dare I say, they will all taste absolutely great.

Here was our take of Mapo Tofu Rice Bowl, and my oh my!  A little less on the heat, so our boy could take it. But oh was it still good. Silky tofu, savory meat, and that little red bite. The latest  pin to the family menu.🔨

🌶️ Tools

• Chopping board & knife
• Grater (for garlic & ginger)
• Wok or a deep & wide pan
• Strainer
• Ladle

🌶️ Ingredients

• 1 pack Tofu,sliced
• Salt
• Hot water
• 2 heads Garlic minced
• A stub of Ginger, minced
• Red chili flakes, or Sichuan peppercorn (to taste)
• 1 eggplant, diced
• Other veggies (to your liking)
• 1 Spring onion, minced
• Chicken broth or cubes
• Cornflour + tepid water (slurry)

🌶️ Steps

1. In the work, boil some water enough to cover the tofu. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Gently put the sliced tofu.
3. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour the water & tofu into appropriate bowl. Let it rest while proceeding to the next steps.
5. Wipe the wok dry, then add 1 tbsp cooking oil.
6. Increase the heat to high --> stir-fry mode!
7. Add the minced pork and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
8. Add the minced garlic and minced ginger, stir-fry for a minute.
9. Add the red chili flakes. 
10. Add the eggplant, stir-fry.
11. Add the other opted-for veggies, stir-fry.
12. Add the TOFU gently.  Mix gently.
13. Add chicken broth, let it simmer.
14. Add the slurry, mix gently. Cook for minute.
15. Garnish with spring onion and crispy garlic bits.

💡Inspired by: Hawker food! 🤤

Marion's Kitchen

Aaron & Claire

Here's another take, paired with some greens 😋