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Get ready for your new addiction because these Bang Bang Tofu Lettuce Wraps are easy to make, deliciously fresh and ready in under 30 minutes! This easy tofu lettuce wrap recipe combines the satisfying crunch of lettuce and crispy tofu with the sweet and spicy flavor of a creamy, oil free bang-bang sauce that’ll keep you coming back for more. This plant-based, vegan meal is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free, gluten free, flavorful dish that’s great for a social function appetizer, a light dinner or easy lunch.
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
Ingredients For Serving
Romaine lettuce is ideal for these wraps due to its sturdy, crisp leaves that can hold the filling without tearing. Its mild flavor also complements the boldness of the tofu and sauce. It’s my preferred lettuce for wraps for these reasons. If you have Swiss chard on hand you could also use that for a heartier wrap, or any other lettuce option like butter lettuce or iceberg will also do.
Move over Bang Bang Shrimp! This recipe delivers all the shrimp vibes, even down to the texture, without harming any of the sea life! What’s the secret? Nori flakes. Often celebrated for their role in sushi making, nori flakes hold a remarkable secret: they can transform plain tofu into a delectable dish reminiscent of shrimp. But how does it mimic the flavor of shrimp, you may ask? Well, it’s all about the umami—the savory, fifth taste sensation that adds depth and complexity to dishes. Nori flakes are brimming with umami goodness, thanks to their natural glutamate content. When combined with tofu, this umami powerhouse creates a flavor profile reminiscent of the ocean, evoking memories of fresh seafood without a single crustacean in sight.
Let me just start by saying this bang bang sauce is BANGING! Not only is this sauce creamy and spicy – it’s also oil free and dairy free making it the perfect healthy alternative to many other bang bang sauces that are made with mayonaise. It coats the crispy tofu perfectly and delivers a delicious punch with each bite. It’s easy to make and can be adjusted for heat, making it a versatile addition to your sauce repertoire.
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees and preparing a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix all the spices, nori flakes, and arrowroot powder until well combined. Add the tofu cubes to this spice mixture and gently fold in using a rubber spatula, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Once coated, spread the tofu cubes out on the prepared baking sheet and place into the oven to bake. Let them cook for about 20 minutes or your desired crispness has been achieved.
While your tofu is baking you can cook your sushi rice according to the package and work on the bang bang sauce. To make the sauce combine all the sauce ingredients in a jar and mix well to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency that’s packed with flavor; adjust the seasoning and spice to your liking. Once the tofu is baked and has had a few minutes to cool, toss it in the sauce to fully coat each crispy piece. Now you’re ready to assemble; take a romaine leaf and layer it with rice, then add your saucy tofu on top, finishing off with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and black sesame seeds. Now, your Bang Bang Tofu Lettuce Wraps are ready to be enjoyed!
One thing I love about lettuce wraps is how easy it can be to personalize the experience. This recipe brings about an opportunity to get the whole dinner table involved. By placing all the ingredients in the center of the table, everyone can partake in the fun of customizing their own wraps, by layering the sticky rice, crispy tofu, and garnishes to their liking. Whether you prefer to make these wraps yourself or want to indulge in the activity of everyone doing it together, the process is effortlessly quick and ensures each wrap is packed with flavor and texture, tailored exactly to your preference.
These wraps can be enjoyed on their own or as a side or appetizer. The Bang Bang Tofu Lettuce Wraps pair wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup, making for a balanced and complete meal.
There is no reason not to love these wraps; unless of course, you don’t like flavorful, delicious and easy to make food! This lettuce wrap recipe is not only healthy but affordable and comes together quickly which means you can enjoy it anytime! It’s not only perfect for social gatherings but also for meal prep as you can make the ingredients ahead of time and carry this on a picnic or to a party.
Author of the Clean Vegan Cookbook, Food Blogger and Recipe Developer from Des Moines, Iowa.
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One Response
Another 5 star recipe. The bang bang sauce is so good! The tofu spice is also excellent. I only wish I would have saved some of the extra bang bang to drizzle on top because it’s so delicious. Definitely recommend.