Mapo Tofu Bites

Mapo Tofu Bites are a delicious vegan twist on the traditional Sichuan dish, featuring crispy tofu coated in a spicy and aromatic sauce. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a satisfying treat any time of the day.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu - 300 grams
• Cornstarch - 3 tablespoons
• Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons (for frying)
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, minced
• Sichuan peppercorns - 1 teaspoon, crushed
• Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste) - 2 tablespoons
• Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Green onions - 2 stalks, chopped
• Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
• Cilantro - for garnish

Steps

1. Press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, minced ginger, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add doubanjiang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar to the pan, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Return the crispy tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
7. Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro.
8. Serve warm as a snack or appetizer.

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 14 g
• Carbs: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• High in plant-based protein from tofu, promoting muscle health.
• Contains anti-inflammatory properties from Sichuan peppercorns and ginger.

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