Tempeh Mapo Tofu

Ingredients

  • 1 block tempeh, crumbled
  • 1 block or silken firm tofu, cut into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed and minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
  • Cooked white rice, for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Sesame oil, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Tempeh and Tofu:
  • Crumble the tempeh into small pieces.
  • Cut the tofu into small cubes.
Prepare Sauce:
  • In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Set aside.
Cook Tempeh and Tofu:
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add minced garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add crumbled tempeh and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add tofu cubes and continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Add Flavorings:
  • Add fermented black beans and chili bean paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  • Pour in the prepared sauce and vegetable broth (or water). Mix everything together.
Simmer:
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
Adjust Consistency (Optional):
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add it to the skillet and stir well. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Finish and Serve:
  • Sprinkle Sichuan peppercorns and the green parts of the onions over the dish.
  • Serve the Tempeh Mapo Tofu over cooked white rice.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and drizzle with sesame oil if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Tempeh Mapo Tofu! Adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste preferences.