Typically Sichuan (code for hot and spicy), mapo tofu has a story to it in the same way many other Chinese dishes do.
Legend has it that Chen Mapo, owner of a Sichuan province restaurant in Chengdu, is the inspiration for this famous Chinese dish, which was so named because of the distinctive freckles or mazi on Chen Mapo’s face. Originating during the early Qing dynasty around the mid-1600’s, mapo doufu has a long history, yet its popularity continues today with locals and people all over China still enjoying this dish. At ChinaTours.com, mapo tofu is a personal favorite and regular inclusion in CT Family gatherings.
And it’s easy to understand why. It’s hard to go past the fresh and tender tofu drizzled with a spicy chili sauce made of ground meat, wild peppers, and broad bean paste. Each bite of tender tofu and savory minced meat combines to surprise, delight, and even add a tingle to your lips.
A definite inclusion on the list of must-eats in China.