Real-Deal Mapo Tofu Recipe

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp

Sichuan peppercorns, divided (see note)

1/4 cup

vegetable oil

1 tsp

cornstarch

2 tsp

cold water

1 1/2 lb

medium to firm silken tofu, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1/4 lb

ground beef

garlic cloves grated on a microplane grater

1 tbsp

fresh ginger grated on a microplane grater

2 tbsp

fermented chili bean paste (see note)

2 tbsp

Xiaoxing wine

1 tbsp

dark soy sauce

1/4 cup

low-sodium chicken stock

1/4 cup

roasted chili oil (see note)

1/4 cup

finely sliced scallion greens