Are you ready to dive into a bowl of bold flavors and spices? This Vegan Mapo Tofu recipe is a fantastic twist on the classic Sichuan dish, delivering all the heat and flavor without any animal products. It’s a perfect option for a satisfying dinner, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to reduce your meat intake.
In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s packed with protein and is as hearty as it is delicious. The combination of silky tofu, spicy bean paste, and aromatic garlic and ginger makes this meal a standout. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete feast.
If you think vegan meals can’t be flavorful, this recipe will change your mind. With its spicy kick and savory undertones, this Vegan Mapo Tofu dish will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Deliciously Spicy Vegan Mapo Tofu Recipe
This Vegan Mapo Tofu is a hearty and spicy dish featuring tender tofu that absorbs rich flavors from fermented black beans and spicy doubanjiang. It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a comforting meal with a kick.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Prep the Tofu: Drain the tofu and cut it into cubes. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Spices: Stir in the fermented black beans and doubanjiang, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.
- Cook the Tofu: Gently add the tofu cubes to the skillet, followed by soy sauce, vegetable broth, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the tofu to soak up the flavors.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2-3 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 12g