Southeast Asian-inspired

Crispy Tofu Lettuce Cups

Crispy tofu, crunchy vegetables, herbs, and a savory lime-soy sauce make fresh lettuce cups that still feel satisfying.

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Crispy Tofu Lettuce Cups

These lettuce cups are all about contrast: hot crispy tofu, cold lettuce, crunchy vegetables, and a punchy sauce. Pressing the tofu first is worth the time because drier tofu browns faster and holds its texture after saucing.

Cornstarch gives the tofu a thin crisp coating without a deep fryer.

The sauce is strong by itself but balanced once it hits the tofu, herbs, and lettuce.

Set everything out family-style so each person can build their own cups.

If you want a more filling meal, serve the tofu mixture over rice and use the lettuce as a fresh side instead.

For something else to cook in the same spirit, try Coconut Chickpea Curry with Spinach or Beef and Broccoli Noodle Stir-Fry.

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Directions

  1. Toss the crumbled tofu with cornstarch and a pinch of salt until lightly coated.
  2. Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp and browned.
  3. Whisk soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl.
  4. Pour the sauce over the tofu and cook for 1 minute, until the tofu is glossy and the sauce reduces slightly.
  5. Arrange lettuce leaves on a platter with carrot and cilantro.
  6. Spoon tofu into lettuce leaves and top with carrot, herbs, and extra lime if desired.

Nutrition

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving: 310 calories, 18 g protein, 23 g carbohydrates, 17 g fat. Rice or extra toppings are not included.

Variations

Recipe Variations

- Add diced water chestnuts to the tofu for crunch.
- Use romaine hearts if butter lettuce is unavailable.
- Add sriracha or chile crisp to the sauce.

Notes

  • Press tofu for at least 15 minutes for the best browning.
  • Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet to keep the coating intact.
  • Add chopped peanuts or cashews for more crunch.

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