Simple and Tasty Mapo Tofu Recipe for Families Visiting Bali
Discover an easy, kid-friendly Mapo Tofu recipe with a Balinese twist!
This dish combines the comforting flavors of Mapo Tofu with locally sourced Balinese spices, creating a delicious and nutritious meal for families visiting Bali.
Perfect for moms traveling with kids, this recipe uses minimal ingredients and is quick to prepare.
Table of Contents
What is Mapo Tofu?
Mapo Tofu is a popular Chinese dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and a flavorful, spicy sauce. It is known for its rich umami taste and satisfying texture.
This recipe adapts the classic dish with a Balinese twist, using local ingredients like sambal matah (Balinese chili relish) and coconut oil to make it family-friendly and perfect for your Bali vacation.
Balinese Inspiration for Mapo Tofu
Bali’s vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients elevate this Mapo Tofu recipe. The use of sambal matah adds a unique spicy kick, while coconut oil lends a subtle tropical aroma.
Balinese limes provide a refreshing tang that complements the savory sauce. This version is milder than traditional Mapo Tofu, making it ideal for kids.
Ingredients for Kid-Friendly Mapo Tofu (4 Kids)
300g soft tofu, cut into cubes
150g ground chicken or pork
1 tablespoon sambal matah (Balinese chili relish)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon Balinese lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon coconut oil
½ cup chicken or vegetable stock
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
Optional garnish: chopped green onions or fried shallots
Steps to Prepare Bali-Style Mapo Tofu
Prepare the Tofu:
Start by cutting the soft tofu into evenly sized cubes, approximately 1-inch each. Place them in a colander and gently rinse under cold water to remove any packaging residue. Set aside to drain.
Prepare the Aromatics:
Mince the garlic finely and grate the ginger.
These fresh aromatics are essential for a flavorful base.
Cook the Meat:
Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the ground chicken or pork and stir-fry until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as you go.
Add the Aromatics:
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sambal matah.
Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, Balinese lime juice, and chicken stock.
This creates the savory and tangy sauce that defines the dish. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring to combine with the meat and aromatics.
Incorporate the Tofu:
Gently add the tofu cubes to the skillet, being careful not to break them.
Use a wooden spoon or spatula to fold them into the sauce. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavors.
Thicken the Sauce:
Gradually add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the sauce coats the tofu and meat evenly.
Final Touch:
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed.
Add a pinch of salt or a dash of sambal matah for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Mapo Tofu
Bali-Style Presentation:
Serve Mapo Tofu in a shallow clay bowl or on a banana leaf-lined plate for an authentic Balinese touch.
Add small side dishes of sambal matah and freshly sliced cucumber for added texture and freshness.
Pairing Options:
Pair the dish with steamed jasmine rice or Balinese yellow rice (nasi kuning) to elevate the meal.
For a complete Balinese experience, add sautéed greens or gado-gado (a vegetable salad with peanut sauce) as a side dish.
Adjust Spice Levels:
For a family-friendly version, reduce the sambal matah to half a teaspoon or replace it with mild chili paste.
For those who enjoy spice, double the sambal matah or sprinkle crushed chili flakes as a garnish.
Garnishing Techniques:
Top the dish with fried shallots, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of Balinese lime juice for extra flavor and color.
Cooking Tip:
If you’re in Bali, use locally sourced tofu from fresh markets, which tends to have a creamier texture compared to packaged versions.
Nutrition Facts for Mapo Tofu Recipe (Per Serving for 4 Kids)
Calories: 230
Fat: 10g (3g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 10g (3g sugars, 1g fiber)
Protein: 20g
This dish provides a healthy balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a nutritious option for children.
New FAQs About Bali-Style Mapo Tofu
Q1: Can I make this dish without sambal matah?
A: Yes, you can substitute sambal matah with sambal oelek or mild chili paste if you prefer a less spicy option.
Q2: Where can I find Balinese lime and sambal matah in Bali?
A: These ingredients are widely available in local markets like Ubud Market or Pepito Supermarket. Many traditional warungs (local eateries) also sell fresh sambal matah.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, baby corn, or thinly sliced carrots work well in Mapo Tofu and add extra nutrition.
Q4: How do I store leftovers in Bali’s tropical climate?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 2 days to ensure freshness, as the warm and humid climate can impact food quality.
Q5: Can I use tempeh instead of meat?
A: Yes, crumbled tempeh is an excellent plant-based substitute for ground meat. It’s readily available in Bali and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
Q6: Is this dish suitable for a Balinese family-style meal?
A: Yes, Mapo Tofu can be served alongside traditional dishes like satay lilit (minced seafood satay) or nasi goreng (fried rice) for a family-style feast.
Q7: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can mix the sauce ingredients and store them in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This makes cooking quicker and easier.
Q8: How can I make the dish more authentic to Balinese flavors?
A: Incorporate bumbu Bali (a traditional Balinese spice paste) into the sauce for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
Q6: Is this dish suitable for young kids?
A: Yes, you can adjust the spice level by reducing the sambal matah, making it mild enough for young children.
