Chili Crisp Tofu Lettuce Wraps
Crispy tofu and a sweet salty chili crisp sauce make these lettuce wraps a fast weeknight win.
Prep: 10 · Cook: 15 · Total: 25 · Serves: 4 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.8/5 (214 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
I wanted a meatless dinner that still feels punchy and satisfying, using a single skillet and a jar of chili crisp.
Story
Some nights I look in the fridge and it feels like every ingredient is a half-finished project. This is my favorite way to turn that into dinner, crisp up tofu, whisk a quick sauce, and let everyone build their own wraps at the table. The lettuce keeps everything light and crunchy, and the chili crisp makes it feel like you tried much harder than you did. If your kitchen is anything like mine, you already have most of this ready to go.
By Casey
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) block extra-firm tofu, patted dry
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola, avocado)
- 2 tbsp chili crisp
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 head butter lettuce or romaine hearts, leaves separated
Instructions
- Tear or cube the tofu into bite-size pieces, then toss with cornstarch and a big pinch of salt until lightly coated.
- Heat the neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add tofu and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp, 10 to 12 minutes.
- While the tofu cooks, whisk chili crisp, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a small bowl.
- Lower heat to medium. Pour sauce into the skillet and toss until the tofu is glossy and the sauce clings, about 1 minute.
- Set out lettuce leaves and add a handful of carrots to each. Spoon saucy tofu on top.
- Finish with scallions. Serve right away, with extra chili crisp at the table if you like it hotter.
Chef Tips
- Pat the tofu dry, then let it sit on paper towels while you prep the sauce for extra crisping.
- Butter lettuce is the most scoopable, but romaine hearts hold up well for meal prep.
- To make it heartier, add a quick microwave pouch of rice on the side.
- If your chili crisp is very salty, start with 2 tsp soy sauce, then adjust.
Cook's Notes
- **Tofu texture:** Tearing the tofu (instead of perfect cubes) creates craggier edges that crisp up fast.
- **Heat control:** Add sauce on medium heat so the honey does not scorch.
- **Make it a meal:** Serve with rice, or add sliced cucumbers and radishes for extra crunch.