Vegan Mapo Tofu

Vegan Mapo Tofu is a delicious and flavorful dish that originated in the Sichuan province of China. This plant-based version of the traditional Mapo Tofu recipe replaces the ground pork with a variety of vegetables and spices, resulting in a satisfying and savory dish that is perfect for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Mapo Tofu is known for its spicy and numbing flavor, and this vegan adaptation does not disappoint in delivering that signature Sichuanese taste.

Vegan Mapo Tofu
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Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

25 mins

Servings:

4

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients

½ cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon peanut oil
1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
3 tablespoons fermented black beans, roughly chopped
2 green onions, white parts only, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
1 (14 ounce) container silken tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon chile oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 tablespoons peanuts, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Mix vegetable broth, maple syrup, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl.

Step 2

Heat peanut oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, black beans, green onions, garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. Saute until aromatic, about 1 minute. Add chili bean paste and the soy sauce mixture. Cook and stir until thick, 3 to 5 minutes. Add tofu; cook until heated through, about 1 minute more.

Step 3

Transfer cooked tofu to a serving dish; drizzle chile oil and sesame oil on top. Top with chopped peanuts.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

255

Calories

16g

Fat

16g

Carbs

13g

Protein

Complement

The dish typically consists of soft tofu cubes, cooked in a spicy, chili and bean-based sauce, and is often garnished with green onions and Sichuan peppercorns for an extra kick of flavor. The combination of the tofu's creamy texture and the bold, spicy sauce makes for a truly irresistible dish. Whether you are a long-time fan of Mapo Tofu or are simply looking to expand your vegan recipe repertoire, Vegan Mapo Tofu is a must-try dish that is sure to become a staple in your home cooking.