Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Spicy Tofu Lettuce Wrap

Sargent Choice Spicy Tofu Lettuce Wrap

April 5, 2022
Mia Sugarman, 4th Year Dietetics Major, Psychology Minor

Recipes modified from vegetarian times
Yield: 16 servings

 Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb. extra-firm tofu, crumbled
  • 1 8-oz. can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
  • 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoon hoison sauce
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons chile sauce (such as siracha)
  • 16 butter lettuce leaves

Suggested Garnishes:
Shredded carrot
Chopped green onions
Chopped fresh mint, basil and/or cilantro
Finely chopped peanuts
Toasted Unsweetened coconut

Directions

  1. Place lettuce leaves on a platter and set out garnishes in small serving bowls.
  2. To make filling: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, ginger, lemongrass, and garlic, and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, or until onions are soft and beginning to brown. Add tofu and water chestnuts, breaking tofu into small crumbles; cook 4 minutes, or until heated through. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chile sauce. Transfer to a serving bowl.
  3. Wrap the tofu mixture in lettuce leaves, and top with their choice of garnishes.

What We Liked

  • The lemongrass and ginger combination created a vibrant flavor.
  • The ingredients can be used in a wrap or as a bowl.
  • It can be enjoyed as a snack or main meal.
  • This recipe was quick and easy to make!

Suggestions

  • Add the sauce and garnish prior to eating the dish.
  • Be sure to properly mince the garlic to avoid large chunks.
  • Consider mixing up by adding other proteins such as fish or meat.
  • Add rice or beans as a base and to make this dish extra filling.
  • This recipe could be made more or less spicy with the addition of herbs and spices.

Nutritional Value

  • Tofu is a great source of plant based protein which is needed for cellular growth and repair.
  • Water chestnuts contain fiber and many vitamins and minerals, such as manganese, potassium and riboflavin.
  • Lemongrass and ginger provide flavor without having to utilize salt.
  • Butter lettuce, like many other leafy greens, is a good source of vitamin K and C, which support blood clotting and for a healthy immune system.