Mapo Tofu as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Mapo Tofu is absolutely in that category. The bold and numbing quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. fermented black bean does work that no substitute can replicate.

Chinese cuisine encompasses eight major regional schools with distinct ingredients and techniques. There's something about the a family banquet table context that reinforces the comfort effect. Shaoxing rice wine alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.