Vegan Szechuan Mapo Tofu

Image of Vegan Szechuan Mapo Tofu in a modern bowl, garnished with green onions and cilantro, beside chopsticks and jasmine rice, on a minimalist table.
Vegan Szechuan Mapo Tofu

Introduction

Tonight's special dish is a vibrant, plant-based creation that encapsulates the depth and diversity of Asian flavors. This recipe for Vegan Szechuan Mapo Tofu is a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and hearty elements, making it an ideal dinner for those looking to explore vegan cuisine with a bold twist.

Ingredients

  • 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns, crushed
  • 1/4 cup vegan fermented black beans
  • 2 tablespoons chili bean paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Szechuan chili oil (optional for extra heat)
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu to remove excess water and then cut into cubes.
  2. Heat the sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns, sautéing until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the black beans and chili bean paste, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add the cubed tofu to the pan, gently tossing to coat with the spices without breaking the tofu.
  5. Pour in the soy sauce, sugar, and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the pan, cooking until the sauce thickens.
  7. Remove from heat and drizzle with Szechuan chili oil if desired.
  8. Garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this fiery and flavorful Vegan Szechuan Mapo Tofu as a standalone dish or pair it with jasmine rice for a complete meal. Its rich layers of taste and tradition are sure to leave you and your guests craving for more!

Hiroshi

Additional Information
NutritionfactsCalories: 250, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 18g, Protein: 12g 
Preparation Time30 minutes 
Allergy InformationSoy, Sesame, Gluten