Tofu lettuce wraps are the perfect combination of fresh, flavorful, and filling. They’re a delicious and healthy choice for a light lunch, snack, or dinner. Packed with protein-rich tofu, crunchy vegetables, and a savory, slightly spicy sauce, these wraps are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Using iceberg, butter, or romaine lettuce as the base not only adds crisp texture but also keeps the meal low in carbs and gluten-free. Here’s a detailed guide to making incredibly tasty tofu lettuce wraps for one hearty serving.
1. Tofu Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 or 16 oz) block firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (peanut oil recommended)
- 1 small white onion or 1/2 large onion, diced
- 2 sliced green onions (white and green parts separated)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vegan oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sambal chili paste (optional, for heat)
For the Wrap:
- 1 head iceberg, butter, or romaine lettuce; leaves separated, cleaned, and dried
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded carrots
- Toasted nuts (peanuts, cashews, or sliced almonds)
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, or Thai basil)
- Crispy rice noodles
- Fresh mung bean sprouts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place something heavy on top, like a skillet or books, for at least 15 minutes. Once pressed, crumble the tofu with your hands or a fork into small pieces that resemble ground meat.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced white onion and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tofu
Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tofu starts to brown and get slightly crispy.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Chestnuts
Stir in the diced water chestnuts followed by the soy sauce, vegan oyster or hoisin sauce, and sambal chili paste if using. Mix well to coat all the tofu evenly. Let it cook for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly reduce.
Step 5: Assemble the Wraps
Lay the lettuce leaves out on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the tofu mixture into each leaf. Sprinkle with the green parts of the green onions.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Customize your wraps with your choice of toppings. Add crunch with toasted nuts, brightness with fresh herbs, and texture with crispy rice noodles or bean sprouts. Shredded carrots add a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
2. Tips for Perfect Tofu Lettuce Wraps
Use the right tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu holds up best when crumbled and sautéed. Avoid soft or silken tofu as it tends to break down too much.
Press the tofu properly: Removing moisture allows the tofu to crisp up and absorb the sauce better.
Crush for texture: Crumbling the tofu gives the filling a ground meat-like texture, which works wonderfully in wraps.
Choose fresh lettuce: Iceberg lettuce offers a satisfying crunch, while butter lettuce is tender and mild. Romaine is a sturdy choice that holds fillings well.
Don’t skip the aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and onion form the flavor base of the filling. Fresh is best for a bold, savory depth.
Balance the flavors: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin or oyster sauce, and sambal creates a savory, umami-rich, slightly spicy mix. Adjust to taste.
3. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftover filling, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to eat again:
- Reheat the tofu filling in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave option: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for about 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Reassemble the wraps with fresh lettuce and toppings just before serving to maintain their crispness.
Avoid storing filled lettuce wraps, as the leaves will become soggy. Always store the tofu filling and lettuce separately for best texture and freshness.
Tofu lettuce wraps are quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and bursting with flavor. They’re ideal for solo meals that don’t skimp on taste or nutrition. With a few basic ingredients and some simple techniques, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
