Gluten-free option, Nut-free
These lettuce wraps pair crispy butter lettuce with flavorful tofu filling and they are served with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce. Serve them with Soy-Miso Edamame and Gochujang Brussels Sprouts.
Tofu Lettuce Wraps are a delightful and wholesome dish that’s perfect for those seeking a light and flavorful meal. These wraps are a popular option for vegetarians and vegans, but they can be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates fresh and vibrant flavors.
The star of this dish is tofu, a versatile and protein-packed ingredient that absorbs the savory hoisin and soy sauce-based marinade, creating a savory and slightly sweet filling. Complemented by the satisfying crunch of water chestnuts and the aromatic combination of garlic, onion, and ginger, the tofu filling is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
What sets these wraps apart is their refreshing presentation. The crisp, delicate butter lettuce leaves serve as the perfect vehicle for holding the flavorful tofu mixture. When wrapped together, they create a delightful contrast in both taste and texture.
The accompanying dipping sauce, with its combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and chili garlic sauce, adds a zesty kick to the wraps, enhancing the overall experience. Topped with minced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, these Tofu Lettuce Wraps are a healthy, satisfying, and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for light lunches, appetizers, or even a meatless dinner option. Whether you’re a dedicated plant-based eater or simply looking for a fresh and delicious meal, Tofu Lettuce Wraps are a fantastic choice that’s sure to leave your taste buds satisfied.
PREP TIME: 10 minutes, plus inactive time to press tofu
COOK TIME: about 15 minutes
YIELD: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
TOFU FILLING
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) hoisin sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1½ tsp (7 ml) pure (untoasted) sesame oil
- ½ tsp chili garlic sauce
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 medium-sized white onion, chopped (about 1 cup [160 g])
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, or 1 tbsp (9 g) jarred minced garlic
- 1 (14- to 16-oz [396- to 453-g]) block firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed
- 1 (8-oz [226-g]) can water chestnuts, drained, rinsed, and chopped small
DIPPING SAUCE
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1½ tsp (7 ml) sesame oil
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) water
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp (7 ml) chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp (5 g) minced green onion
- 1½ tsp (6 g) sesame seeds
FOR SERVING
- 1 head butter lettuce, separated into whole pieces
- Chopped green onion
- Sesame seeds
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Make the Tofu Filling:
- In a small bowl, stir together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, and ginger. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Stir in the onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Crumble the pressed tofu into the pan and stir well. Cook, stirring often, for another 3 minutes.
- Stir the prepared hoisin mixture into the tofu mixture, coating the tofu evenly. Stir in the chopped water chestnuts. Cook, stirring often, for another 5 minutes.
2. Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the dipping sauce ingredients.
3. Assemble the Wraps:
- Serve by placing your desired amount of the tofu filling down the center of each piece of butter lettuce.
- Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve with the dipping sauce.
