🇲🇾 Malaysia · Food

Mapo Tofu (Malay-Style)

50 min
A great way to spend your free time
🔥 380 kcal
Nicely balanced
🍽 4 servings
Great for the family

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Mapo Tofu (Malay-Style)🇲🇾 MY

A Malaysian home-style variation of the classic Mapo Tofu, featuring silky bean curd simmered in a savory, slightly sweet sauce with minced pork. It is the ultimate comfort dish to serve over hot steaming rice.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Cut 400g of tofu into 2cm cubes and gently pat them dry to prevent splattering during frying.

  • 2

    Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat and sear the tofu cubes until lightly golden on all sides.

  • 3

    Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside. Add the remaining 2 tbsp oil to the same pan.

  • 4

    Sauté 3 chopped garlic cloves until fragrant, then add 200g minced pork, breaking it up with a spatula until browned.

  • 5

    Stir in 2 tbsp oyster sauce and 1 tbsp soy sauce, mixing thoroughly to create a rich, savory base.

  • 6

    Return the tofu to the pan, add 100ml water, and simmer for 5 minutes so the tofu absorbs the flavors.

  • 7

    Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with a splash of water and pour into the pan, stirring gently until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu.

  • 8

    Garnish with 2 chopped spring onions and serve immediately over freshly cooked white rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of tofu is best?+

Medium-firm tofu is ideal as it holds its shape while remaining soft enough to absorb the sauce.

Can I substitute the pork?+

Yes, minced chicken or beef works perfectly as a substitute for pork in this recipe.

Is this supposed to be very spicy?+

This Malaysian-style version is typically savory rather than fiery, but you can add chili paste if you like heat.

How do I prevent the tofu from breaking?+

Fry the tofu first to firm up the exterior, and avoid over-stirring once you add it back into the sauce.

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