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Ingredients
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Crispy Tofu Filling
Wraps & Garnish
Method
Crispy Tofu Filling
Press and cube tofu
Remove tofu from packaging and drain. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy pan or a couple of cans on top for 20–30 minutes to press out excess liquid. Once pressed, cut tofu into 1/2-inch cubes.
Toss with cornstarch
Place tofu cubes in a bowl and gently toss with 4 tbs cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch; the coating should be light but complete.
Pan-fry tofu
Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 4 tbs neutral oil. When oil is shimmering, add tofu in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid crowding). Cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until all sides are crisp. Transfer cooked tofu to a plate lined with paper towels.
Make sauce and combine
Discard excess oil from the skillet leaving about 1 tsp. Reduce heat to medium, add minced ginger and garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 2 tbs soy sauce, 1 tbs rice vinegar, 1 tbs hoisin, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sriracha (optional), 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer 30 seconds. Return the crispy tofu to the skillet, add diced water chestnuts and sliced green onions, and toss gently to coat in the sauce for 1–2 minutes so the tofu stays crisp but is evenly flavored. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more soy or vinegar to balance).
Assemble Wraps & Garnish
Prepare lettuce cups
Separate and pat dry 12 lettuce leaves. Arrange them on a serving platter.
Portion filling
Spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the crispy tofu mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf (adjust depending on leaf size).
Add garnishes
Top each filled lettuce cup with a small handful (about 1 tbsp) of shredded carrots, a few slices of cucumber, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and some cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over just before eating.
Serve warm
Serve immediately so the tofu stays crisp. Provide extra hoisin or sriracha at the table if desired.