Mapo tofu is a dish that warms the heart and ignites the taste buds. This classic Chinese recipe is all about the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and creamy flavors. Ready to explore some delicious takes on this beloved dish? Let’s get cooking!
Classic Sichuan Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu from The Woks of Life
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Spicy bean sauce, ground pork, silken tofu, sesame oil, chicken broth Total Time: 35 min.

Mapo Tofu, the Authentic Way (麻婆豆腐) from Red House Spice
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Fermented black beans, minced beef, chilli bean paste, ginger, rice wine Total Time: fermented black beans, minced beef, chilli bean paste, ginger, rice wine.

Mapo Tofu Recipe from China Sichuan Food
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Fermented black beans, soy sauce, soft tofu, sesame oil, minced meat beef Total Time: fermented black beans, soy sauce, soft tofu, sesame oil, minced meat beef.
This recipe is the real deal! It features soft tofu smothered in a spicy, fragrant sauce made with fermented black beans, chili paste, and minced pork. The heat from the Sichuan peppercorns adds a unique numbing quality that makes every bite exciting.
What makes this dish special is the harmony of flavors. The richness of the pork complements the silky tofu, while the sauce is an explosion of umami that will have you craving more. Perfect with a bowl of steamed rice, it’s a comforting meal that never disappoints!
Vegetarian Mapo Tofu

Vegetarian Mapo Tofu from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Black bean sauce, five spice powder, soft tofu, dried shiitake mushrooms, homemade chili oil Total Time: 30 min.

Vegan Mapo Tofu from The Woks of Life
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Spicy bean sauce, fermented black beans, silken tofu, shiitake mushrooms, chili oil Total Time: 30 min.

Vegetarian Mapo Tofu from Tiffy Cooks
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Silken tofu, soy sauce, shiitake mushroom, sichuan peppercorn, garlic Total Time: 25 min.
Who says you need meat for a delicious mapo tofu? This vegetarian version uses mushrooms and lentils to create a hearty texture that mimics the classic recipe. The sauce is packed with the same bold flavors, including garlic, ginger, and spicy doubanjiang (fermented chili bean paste).
This dish is not only tasty but also healthy! It’s loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a great option for meatless Mondays or any day you want a lighter meal. Serve it over quinoa for an extra nutritional boost!
Mapo Tofu with a Twist: Coconut Curry Style
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this unique rendition! This recipe combines the traditional mapo tofu elements with creamy coconut milk and aromatic curry spices. The result is a delicious fusion that’s both spicy and comforting.
This dish is special because it takes you on a culinary adventure. The creamy coconut sauce balances the heat perfectly, creating a dish that feels both exotic and familiar. Serve it with jasmine rice for a tropical touch!
Spicy Mapo Tofu with Green Peas

Authentic Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.
Add some color and sweetness to your mapo tofu with this delightful recipe! The vibrant green peas offer a nice contrast to the rich sauce and soft tofu. The combination of spicy and sweet makes each bite a delightful surprise.
This version stands out because it’s visually appealing and has a fresh taste that brightens up the dish. It’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying the bold flavors you love. Plus, it’s perfect for those who are looking to add a bit of crunch!
Mapo Tofu Stir-Fry
Say goodbye to boring stir-fries! This recipe takes all the elements of mapo tofu and turns them into a quick, easy stir-fry. You’ll still get the soft tofu, but it’s tossed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a spicy sauce that coats everything beautifully.
This stir-fry is special because it’s incredibly versatile. You can switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand or even add in some noodles for a heartier meal. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss!
Mapo Tofu Soup

Chicken Broccoli Mapo Tofu Soup from The Food in My Beard
Ingredients: Ground chicken, silken tofu, soy sauce, fermented bean paste, chili oil Total Time: 45 min.

Mapo Tofu, the Authentic Way (麻婆豆腐) from Red House Spice
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Fermented black beans, minced beef, chilli bean paste, ginger, rice wine Total Time: fermented black beans, minced beef, chilli bean paste, ginger, rice wine.

Authentic Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) from Omnivore's Cookbook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Five spice powder, ground pork, soy sauce, homemade chili oil, ginger Total Time: 25 min.
Warm up with a comforting bowl of mapo tofu soup! This version takes the classic flavors and transforms them into a cozy, broth-based dish. The tender tofu floats in a spicy broth loaded with vegetables and aromatic herbs.
This soup shines because it’s perfect for chilly days when you need something soothing. The broth is packed with flavor, and the addition of greens adds freshness. Serve it with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal that will make you feel all warm inside!