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Creating the perfect Sticky Glazed Tofu starts with ensuring the tofu is cooked to perfection. This involves a careful frying technique that transforms the tofu into a deliciously crispy and flavorful base for your lettuce boats.

Sticky Glazed Tofu Lettuce Boats

Discover the deliciously healthy Sticky Glazed Tofu Lettuce Boats, a vibrant option perfect for any meal or gathering. This recipe features crispy, glazed tofu perfectly paired with fresh vegetables, all wrapped in crunchy lettuce leaves. Each bite offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures, while being packed with plant-based protein and nutrients. It's a light yet filling choice that's both fun to prepare and enjoyable to share with friends and family. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience that celebrates healthy eating!
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Ingredients
  

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and drained

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)

1 red bell pepper, julienned

2 green onions, chopped

1 small cucumber, thinly sliced

1 cup shredded carrots

1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Fresh cilantro or mint, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a large mixing bowl, evenly toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful crispy texture when cooked.

    Make the Glaze: In a separate small bowl, combine the soy sauce, maple syrup (or honey), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha (if you'd like a spicy kick). Whisk these ingredients together until thoroughly blended, then set the mixture aside.

      Cook the Tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cornstarch-coated tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry the tofu for approximately 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally so each side becomes golden brown and crispy.

        Add the Glaze: Reduce the heat to medium, then pour your prepared glaze over the crispy tofu in the skillet. Gently stir to ensure all the tofu pieces are evenly coated in the sauce. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and becomes sticky, coating the tofu beautifully.

          Assemble the Lettuce Boats: Take a leaf from the butter lettuce (or iceberg) and place it on a serving plate. Spoon a generous amount of the sticky glazed tofu into the center of each leaf. Next, top with your julienned red bell pepper, thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions.

            Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds over the filled lettuce boats, and add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or mint for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delicious boats immediately for the freshest, crispiest experience!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                Presentation Tips: Arrange the filled lettuce boats on a colorful platter, with extra sesame seeds and herbs scattered around for an inviting display. Encourage guests to customize their boats with additional toppings as desired!