Sesame-Ginger Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Pan-seared tofu seasoned with sesame and ginger, wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves and drizzled with a creamy peanut sauce. This asian-inspired sandwiches & wraps (vegan, gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes blends sesame oil, grated fresh ginger, low sodium soy sauce into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 8 oz diced extra-firm tofu, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, and 1 clove minced garlic. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until tofu is golden and slightly crispy.
  2. Step 2: Pour 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce over the tofu and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and coat the tofu.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp peanut butter, 2 tbsp warm water, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp honey, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: To assemble, lay 6 large romaine lettuce leaves flat and divide the cooked tofu evenly among them. Top each with 1/2 cup julienned carrot and 2 tbsp sliced green onion.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle the peanut sauce generously over the fillings. Fold the lettuce leaves around the filling and serve immediately as handheld wraps.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sesame-Ginger Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sesame-Ginger Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sesame-Ginger Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sesame-Ginger Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Sesame-Ginger Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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