Crispy Sesame Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Pickled Radish and Ginger Scallion Sauce

Ingredients

• •1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• •2 tablespoons cornstarch
• •3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• •2 tablespoons soy sauce
• •1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• •1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• •1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• •1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• •1 cup thinly sliced radishes
• •1/4 cup rice vinegar (for pickling)
• •1 teaspoon sugar (for pickling)
• •1/2 teaspoon salt (for pickling)
• •2 scallions, finely chopped
• •1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• •1 tablespoon soy sauce (for sauce)
• •1 tablespoon vegetable or sesame oil (for sauce)
• •1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (for sauce)
• •1 head butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
• •Optional: additional sesame seeds and chili flakes for garnish

Instructions

1. 1

   Press the extra-firm tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.

2. 2

   In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.

3. 3

   Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the crispy tofu in the skillet, toss to coat evenly, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

5. 5

   To prepare the pickled radishes, combine 1/4 cup rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until sugar dissolves, then add the thinly sliced radishes. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

6. 6

   For the ginger scallion sauce, mix the chopped scallions, grated ginger, soy sauce, vegetable or sesame oil, and toasted sesame oil in a small bowl. Stir well to combine and set aside.

7. 7

   Separate and rinse the butter lettuce leaves, then pat them dry. Arrange them on a serving platter as individual cups.

8. 8

   To assemble, place a few cubes of crispy sesame tofu into each lettuce leaf. Top with pickled radishes and drizzle with the ginger scallion sauce. Garnish with additional sesame seeds or chili flakes if desired.

9. 9

   Serve the lettuce wraps immediately, family-style, or as individual portions. Enjoy!