Mapo tofu sauce

Homemade

Item Rating: 55/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 120 calories, 3.0 grams of protein, 8.0 grams of fat, and 10.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		285.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		19.0 g	24%
	Saturated Fat	3.6 g	18%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		1904.8 mg	82%
Total Carbohydrates		23.8 g	8%
	Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	8%
	Sugars	9.5 g
protein		7.1 g	14%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.6 mg	3%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		357.1 mg	7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 171 cal (58.0%)

Protein: 28 cal (9.6%)

Carbs: 95 cal (32.3%)

About Mapo tofu sauce

Mapo Tofu Sauce is a flavorful, spicy sauce originating from Sichuan cuisine in China, known for its distinctive use of fermented chili bean paste (doubanjiang), Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, and ginger. This sauce is typically used to prepare the popular dish Mapo Tofu, combining tofu and ground meat with the sauce to create a bold and numbing flavor. Nutritionally, the sauce is moderate in calories and contains small amounts of iron and manganese from spices, and trace antioxidants from chili peppers. However, it is often high in sodium due to fermented ingredients and soy sauce, so serving sizes should be considered within a balanced diet.

Health Benefits

• Chili peppers provide capsaicin, a compound that may help boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
• Garlic in the sauce contains allicin, which supports heart health and may exhibit antimicrobial properties.
• Sichuan peppercorns contribute antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains soy, wheat (from soy sauce), sesame (optional, if included)

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if made without meat), vegan (if proper ingredients are chosen)

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diet (due to soy sauce), low-sodium diet (due to high sodium content)

Selection and Storage

Store Mapo Tofu Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months to maintain freshness.

Common Questions About Mapo tofu sauce Nutrition

Is Mapo Tofu Sauce high in protein?

Mapo Tofu Sauce itself is not a significant source of protein as its main ingredients, such as fermented bean paste and chili oil, are low in protein. However, when paired with tofu (which contains around 8-10 grams of protein per 100 grams) and ground meat, the overall dish can become protein-rich.

Can I eat Mapo Tofu Sauce on a keto diet?

Mapo Tofu Sauce can be adapted for a keto diet, but the carbohydrate content depends on the specific recipe. Traditional sauces may include sugar or starch as thickeners, which are not keto-friendly. Using low-carb substitutions like almond flour or skipping sugar entirely can make it suitable for keto.

Are there any health concerns with Mapo Tofu Sauce?

Mapo Tofu Sauce can be high in sodium due to the inclusion of salty ingredients like soy sauce and fermented bean paste, which may not be ideal for individuals with high blood pressure. Additionally, its traditional spice level could be harsh for those with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux.

What is the recommended portion size for Mapo Tofu Sauce?

A typical serving of Mapo Tofu Sauce is about 2-3 tablespoons, which is enough to flavor 1-2 servings of tofu and rice or other accompaniments. This portion contains an estimated 60-100 calories, depending on the recipe, and should be balanced with other ingredients for a nutritionally complete meal.

How does Mapo Tofu Sauce compare to other Chinese sauces?

Mapo Tofu Sauce is distinct from other Chinese sauces like hoisin or black bean sauce due to its spicy, numbing flavors from Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. Unlike sweeter sauces, it has a robust umami profile and emphasizes heat and depth, making it unique for hearty dishes.

Data Sources & Scientific References