Story Behind the Recipe:
When I first tried Mapo Tofu at a small Chinese restaurant, I was amazed by how a simple tofu dish could be packed with so much flavor. The rich, savory sauce with a slight kick of spice instantly became one of my favorites. Wanting a healthier homemade version, I created this easy Chinese-Style Spicy Garlic Tofu—delicious, affordable, and perfect over rice. Now, it’s my go-to meal when I crave something comforting yet light.
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins | Servings: 2-3
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cubed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for mild spice)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (or brown sugar)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the tofu: Pat dry and cut into cubes. Lightly pan-fry in sesame oil until golden brown (about 3 minutes per side), then set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then add soy sauce, chili paste, rice vinegar, and honey.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Return the tofu to the pan and coat evenly.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
