Spicy Sichuan Tofu and Pork (Mapo Dofu)
- Makes6 servings
- Cook Time40 minutes
- 7
This is our take on the Sichuan classic mapo dofu, a braise of tofu and ground pork in a sauce flavored with chili oil and tingling Sichuan peppercorns. Toban djan, a fermented chili-bean paste, supplies much of the bold, savory flavor here; it’s sold in jars in Asian markets. If you can't find it, substitute 1½ tablespoons red miso mixed with 1 tablespoon Asian chili-garlic sauce. You can tone down the heat by omitting the chili oil and using a total of 3 tablespoons peanut oil, but don’t cut back on the toban djan. Serve this dish with steamed rice. Leftovers taste even better, though the tofu will release water, slightly thinning the sauce.
Don’t use chili-sesame oil or sesame oil infused with chili. The sesame flavor will overpower the dish. Don’t forget to drain off the excess water from the tofu before adding it to the sauce.
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