Chinese cuisine

Tofu, also known as bean curd, is a staple in many Asian cuisines for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors. When it comes to Chinese cuisine, spicy tofu, or “ma la dou fu,” is a classic dish that combines the delicate texture of tofu with the fiery heat of chili peppers and the numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making spicy tofu from scratch, ensuring you get that perfect balance of flavors every time.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s outline the ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 block (about 300 grams) of firm tofu
• 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 inch of fresh ginger, grated
• 2-3 dried red chili peppers (or to taste), deseeded and chopped
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, lightly crushed
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese black vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Tofu

1. Cut the Tofu: Start by cutting the tofu into small cubes, approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters) on each side. This size allows for even cooking and easier handling.
2. Blanching the Tofu: To remove excess moisture and prevent crumbling during cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Carefully drop in the tofu cubes and let them simmer for about 2 minutes. This step is optional but recommended for better texture. Drain the tofu in a colander and rinse with cold water before patting dry with a kitchen towel.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

1. Heat the Oil: In a wok or a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Spices: Next, add the chopped dried red chili peppers and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the oils to infuse with the spices’ flavors. Be careful not to burn the peppers, as this can turn the dish bitter.

Step 3: Cooking the Tofu

1. Toss in Tofu: Gently add the tofu cubes to the wok, taking care not to break them up. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss the tofu in the aromatic oil mixture.
2. Seasoning: After about 2 minutes, when the tofu starts to take on some color, pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Toss well to ensure even distribution of flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the tofu simmer for about 5 minutes or until most of the liquid has been absorbed. This step allows the tofu to absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce.

Step 4: Thickening (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a small amount of water (about 2 tablespoons) to form a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the wok while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let it simmer for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the wok from heat and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro or chopped scallions on top for added flavor and color.
2. Plate and Enjoy: Transfer the spicy tofu to a serving dish and serve immediately while hot. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or as an accompaniment to other Chinese dishes like lo mein or fried rice.

Tips and Variations

• Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns according to your preference for more or less heat.
• Vegetable Additions: For a heartier dish, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms during the sautéing process. These will add more texture and nutrients to your dish.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving as the tofu may become softer upon reheating.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re gluten-free, use tamari or coconut amino acids instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this dish.

In conclusion, making spicy tofu at home is not only rewarding but also a great way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. By following these steps carefully and adjusting the ingredients according to your taste preferences, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing. So why not give it a try today? Your taste buds will thank you!