Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a iconic Sichuan dish featuring soft tofu cubes in a vibrant, spicy sauce, typically made with ground pork, fermented black beans, and a generous amount of chili oil. It originates from Chengdu, Sichuan Province, and is celebrated for its signature 'málà' (numbing and spicy) flavor profile.

🍳 View the full Mapo Tofu recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is generally balanced, offering a good source of plant-based protein from tofu and some fat from the chili oil and pork, with a moderate calorie count around 300-400 per typical serving. Key nutrients include calcium and iron from the tofu, along with capsaicin from the chilies.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	210 kcal
Protein	14 g
Carbs	8 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	890 mg
Iron	3.2 mg
Calcium	180 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Vitamin B6	0.2 mg
Vitamin B12	0.8 µg
Manganese	0.9 mg
Selenium	12 µg
Phosphorus	210 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Mapo Tofu is a prime example of Sichuan cuisine's complex 'málà' flavor, which combines the tingling numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns with fiery heat. Nutritionally, the capsaicin in the chilies is known for its potential metabolism-boosting properties.