Crispy Asian-Style Tofu Lettuce Wraps

Crispy Asian-Style Tofu Lettuce Wraps

These flavorful tofu lettuce wraps deliver restaurant-quality taste with crispy seasoned tofu, crunchy water chestnuts, and aromatic ginger-garlic goodness wrapped in fresh lettuce cups. Perfect for a light dinner or impressive appetizer that's both satisfying and plant-based.

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Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: Asian, Vegetarian

Keyword: Vegetarian

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 12

Total Time: 27

Servings:

Calories: 185kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

1 14-16 oz block firm or extra-firm tofu
2 tbsp neutral vegetable oil
1 small white onion diced
2 green onions sliced (white and green parts separated)
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 tsp minced ginger
1 8 oz can water chestnuts, drained and diced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 cup vegan oyster or hoisin sauce
1 tbsp sambal chili paste optional
1 head iceberg butter, or romaine lettuce, leaves separated and cleaned

Instructions

Press tofu between paper towels or in a tofu press, for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then crumble into small pieces.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add crumbled tofu to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tofu is golden brown and crispy.
Stir in water chestnuts, soy sauce, vegan oyster or hoisin sauce, and sambal chili paste if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined.
Remove from heat and garnish with green parts of green onions.
Serve immediately with lettuce leaves, allowing guests to scoop filling into lettuce cups and wrap.

Notes

Press tofu thoroughly for the best texture - well-pressed tofu will crisp up better and absorb flavors more effectively

Substitute shiitake mushrooms for water chestnuts if preferred, or add both for extra texture

Make the filling up to 2 days ahead and reheat before serving for easy meal prep

Butter lettuce works best for wrapping as it's more pliable than iceberg or romaine

Add chopped peanuts, shredded carrots, or fresh cilantro for extra crunch and flavor

For gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and verify your oyster/hoisin sauce is gluten-free

Leftover filling makes an excellent stir-fry over rice or noodles

Nutrition