Mapo Dofu (Sichuan-Style Tofu)

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Warm in a large skillet over medium-high heat: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2. Step 2.

   If desired, add: (½ pound ground beef or pork)

3. Step 3.

   Cook, using a wooden spoon to break up the meat, until cooked through and starting to crisp, about 5 minutes. Add to the skillet: 2 tablespoons Sichuan chili bean paste; (1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed); 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and minced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; (¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper)

4. Step 4.

   Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Carefully pour into the skillet (it may spatter): 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock or broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce

5. Step 5.

   Immediately add to the skillet: 14 ounces soft or medium tofu, cut into ½-inch cubes

6. Step 6.

   Let the sauce simmer without disturbing the tofu for about 3 minutes. Push the tofu to the sides of the skillet and stir into the sauce: 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water

7. Step 7.

   Let the sauce thicken, then gently stir the tofu. Remove from the heat and sprinkle with: ½ teaspoon ground Sichuan pepper; 1 green onion, thinly sliced