Tofu and Brown Rice Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are a healthy and delicious dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Here’s how you can prepare them:
Tofu and Brown Rice Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup warm water (more or less to thin out the sauce)
- Sriracha or chili paste, to taste (optional, for heat)
**For the Tofu and Brown Rice Filling:**
- 1 block (14-16 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish)
- Butter lettuce leaves or any large lettuce leaves, for wrapping
Instructions:
**1. Prepare the Peanut Sauce:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar (or lime juice), honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and sriracha or chili paste (if using).
- Gradually whisk in warm water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Tofu and Brown Rice Filling:
- Cut the pressed tofu into small cubes or strips.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat toasted sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add tofu cubes/strips to the skillet and drizzle with soy sauce (or tamari). Sprinkle with ground cumin and smoked paprika.
- Stir-fry the tofu for 5-7 minutes, or until it is lightly browned and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Lettuce Wraps:
- Lay out the butter lettuce leaves or large lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
- Spoon a tablespoon or two of cooked brown rice onto each lettuce leaf.
- Top with some of the stir-fried tofu.
- Add shredded carrots, chopped cucumber, and fresh cilantro on top of the tofu.
4. Serve:
- Drizzle the prepared peanut sauce over the tofu and vegetable filling.
- Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Tofu and Brown Rice Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce!
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Tips:
Customize the Filling:** You can add or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers, shredded cabbage, or bean sprouts for variety and additional crunch.
Make it Spicy:** Adjust the amount of sriracha or chili paste in the peanut sauce to suit your spice preference.
Prepare Ahead:** The components (peanut sauce, tofu filling, and chopped vegetables) can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving to save time.
Tofu and Brown Rice Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are refreshing, flavorful, and packed with protein and nutrients. They make a great option for a light and satisfying meal that's both vegan and gluten-free. Enjoy these wraps as a healthy lunch or dinner option!