Spicy Vegan Mapo Tofu with Mushrooms
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this Spicy Vegan Mapo Tofu with Mushrooms. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish features soft, silken tofu paired with richly umami-packed shiitake mushrooms, and a spicy, aromatic sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Infused with fragrant garlic, ginger, and earthy fermented black beans, this mapo tofu is not only quick to prepare but is also a delicious way to introduce plant-based ingredients into your diet. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing dinner guests, serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tofu, silken
400 g (cut into inch cubes)
Shiitake mushrooms
150 g (sliced)
Vegetable broth
125 ml
Chili bean paste
2 tablespoons
Fermented black beans
30 g (roughly chopped)
Garlic
6 cloves (minced)
Ginger
1 tablespoon (minced)
Szechuan peppercorns
1 teaspoon
Low sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons
Peanut oil
1 tablespoon
Sesame oil
1 teaspoon
Chili oil
1 teaspoon
Honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon
Green onions
30 g (thinly sliced)
Cornstarch
1 teaspoon
Peanuts
25 g (roughly chopped)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the vegetable broth, cornstarch, low sodium soy sauce, and honey. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and set aside.
2
Heat peanut oil in a wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3
Add the minced ginger, garlic, sliced shiitake mushrooms, Szechuan peppercorns, roughly chopped fermented black beans, and the white part of the green onions to the wok. Saute the ingredients for about 1-2 minutes until they become aromatic.
4
Stir in the chili bean paste and the prepared soy sauce mixture, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5
Gently fold in the silken tofu cubes, taking care not to break them. Allow the tofu to heat through for about 1 minute, ensuring it is coated in the sauce.
6
Transfer the mapo tofu to a serving dish and drizzle with chili oil and sesame oil for an extra kick of flavor.
7
Finish by topping with the remaining green onion slices and chopped peanuts, then serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Vegan Mapo Tofu with Mushrooms?
It is a 15-minute plant-based version of the classic Sichuan dish, featuring silken tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and a spicy fermented bean sauce.
Is traditional Mapo Tofu usually vegan?
No, traditional Mapo Tofu typically contains ground pork or beef, but this recipe replaces the meat with umami-rich shiitake mushrooms.
How long does it take to cook this recipe?
This recipe is very quick, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use firm tofu instead of silken tofu?
While silken tofu is traditional for its soft texture, you can use firm or extra-firm tofu if you prefer a sturdier texture that won't break as easily.
What are the primary ingredients in the sauce?
The sauce is made from vegetable broth, cornstarch, low sodium soy sauce, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
What is chili bean paste or Doubanjiang?
Chili bean paste is a fermented condiment made from broad beans and chili peppers, providing the essential spicy and savory base for Mapo Tofu.
What do fermented black beans add to the dish?
Fermented black beans, or Douchi, provide a deep, earthy, and salty umami flavor that is characteristic of Sichuan cuisine.
Is this Mapo Tofu recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you must use a gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and ensure your chili bean paste is certified gluten-free.
What can I use as a substitute for shiitake mushrooms?
You can use other mushrooms like button mushrooms, cremini, or oyster mushrooms as a substitute for shiitakes.
Can I substitute the peanut oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the sauce a glossy consistency that coats the tofu and mushrooms perfectly.
Are Szechuan peppercorns necessary?
Szechuan peppercorns provide the unique numbing sensation (ma) and citrusy aroma essential to authentic Mapo Tofu.
How do I prevent the silken tofu from breaking?
Gently fold the tofu cubes into the sauce at the very end and avoid aggressive stirring to maintain their shape.
Can I make this dish vegan if the recipe calls for honey?
Yes, simply replace the honey with maple syrup to make the entire dish strictly vegan.
How spicy is this dish?
This dish is moderately spicy due to the chili bean paste and chili oil; you can adjust the heat by adding more or less of these ingredients.
How should I serve Spicy Vegan Mapo Tofu?
It is best served hot over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even noodles.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prep the sauce and chop the ingredients in advance to make the 15-minute cooking process even faster.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Mapo Tofu?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of silken tofu becomes porous and spongy once thawed.
What is a good substitute for Szechuan peppercorns?
While there is no perfect match, a combination of black peppercorns and a little lemon zest can mimic some of the aroma.
How do I clean the shiitake mushrooms?
Wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove dirt rather than soaking them, as they absorb water easily.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, ingredients like diced bell peppers, peas, or baby corn can be added for extra color and nutrients.
What are the recommended garnishes?
The dish is traditionally finished with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of sesame and chili oil.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a high-protein, plant-based meal that uses fresh aromatics like ginger and garlic.
Do I need a wok to make this?
A wok is ideal for even heat distribution, but a large non-stick skillet or frying pan will work perfectly fine.
What can I use if I do not have vegetable broth?
You can use water, though the sauce will have slightly less depth of flavor.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How should I prepare the garlic and ginger?
Both the garlic and ginger should be finely minced to ensure they release maximum flavor during the quick saute.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the peanuts and use a different neutral oil instead of peanut oil.
What are the 'white parts' of the green onions?
The white parts are the bottom sections of the onion which are firmer and more pungent; they are sauteed like aromatics while the green parts are used for garnish.