Save Imagine biting into a perfect harmony of flavors and textures: crispy, sweet-glazed tofu nestled in cool, crisp lettuce leaves, topped with a rainbow of crunchy vegetables. These Sweet Chili Tofu Lettuce Cups bring together the satisfying chew of perfectly cooked tofu with the bright crunch of fresh vegetables, all tied together with a sweet-savory glaze that will have you reaching for seconds. A vibrant, plant-based dish that proves healthy eating can be anything but boring.
Save These lettuce cups are not just delicious—they're also incredibly versatile. Serve them as an impressive starter for dinner guests or enjoy as a light yet satisfying main course. The combination of crispy-coated tofu, sweet chili glaze, and fresh vegetables creates an explosion of flavor in every bite, making this dish a regular in my plant-based recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- Tofu: 400g (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., canola or sunflower)
- Sweet Chili Glaze: 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce (vegan)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Veggie Slaw: 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup carrot, julienned or grated
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Pinch of salt
- For Serving: 12 large butter or romaine lettuce leaves
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the tofu
- Pat the tofu dry and cut into bite-sized cubes. Toss cubes gently with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- 2. Cook the tofu
- Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides (about 8–10 minutes).
- 3. Prepare the glaze
- While tofu cooks, mix sweet chili glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
- 4. Make the slaw
- In a large bowl, combine all veggie slaw ingredients. Toss well to coat and set aside.
- 5. Glaze the tofu
- Once tofu is crisp, lower heat to medium. Pour in sweet chili glaze, stirring to coat tofu evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and tofu is glossy.
- 6. Assemble the cups
- Lay out lettuce leaves. Add a generous spoonful of slaw to each, top with sweet chili tofu, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, make sure to press your tofu thoroughly before cutting—this removes excess moisture and helps it get super crispy when fried. The cornstarch coating is essential for achieving that perfect crispy exterior. When making the slaw, you can prepare it while the tofu cooks to save time. For the lettuce cups, look for leaves that are sturdy enough to hold the filling but still tender and fresh.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your preferences. Try adding minced ginger or garlic to the glaze for extra flavor depth. For a spicier version, mix in sriracha or chili flakes. If you prefer a protein alternative, try using tempeh instead of tofu. For extra texture, consider adding water chestnuts to the slaw or topping the finished cups with chopped roasted peanuts or cashews.
Serviervorschläge
These lettuce cups make a perfect starter but can easily become a complete meal. Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a more substantial dinner. For a fun party presentation, arrange all components on a large platter and let guests build their own cups. These pair beautifully with a cold Asian-inspired cucumber salad or a simple miso soup for a balanced meal.
Save Whether you're new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned vegan chef, these Sweet Chili Tofu Lettuce Cups deliver restaurant-quality flavor with home-kitchen simplicity. The contrasting textures of crispy tofu, crunchy vegetables, and tender lettuce create a sensory experience that makes healthy eating feel indulgent. Perfect for warm weather dining, light lunches, or as part of an Asian-inspired feast, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of tofu works best for this dish?
Firm tofu pressed and cubed is ideal to achieve a crispy texture that holds the glaze well.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients in the slaw?
Yes, you can swap vegetables like red cabbage or carrot with others such as cucumber or radish for variation.
- → How should I cook tofu to get it crispy?
Coat tofu cubes lightly with cornstarch and cook in hot oil over medium-high heat until golden on all sides.
- → Is there a vegan alternative for the glaze ingredients?
All ingredients in the glaze are vegan, but ensure the sweet chili sauce contains no animal derivatives.
- → What are some serving suggestions for these tofu cups?
Serve with lime wedges to add brightness and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or nuts for extra crunch.
- → Can I prepare the slaw ahead of time?
Yes, keeping the slaw chilled helps maintain its crunch and flavor before assembly.