Spring is the perfect season to switch to lighter meals such as our Vegan San Choy Bao recipe, a delightful Asian-inspired dish that combines the crunch of lettuce with savoury tofu or vegan mince. We love this recipe for its perfect fusion of textures and tastes. Best of all, it is a fantastic way to make the most of your organic veggies and tofu or vegan mince.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Green Oak or Fancy Lettuce leaves, for wrapping
- 250g firm tofu, crumbled (or vegan mince if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, chopped
- 3 spring onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped, for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Lettuce Cups: Gently separate the lettuce leaves to create cup-shaped wraps. Wash and set aside.
Cook the Tofu or Vegan Mince: In a large pan or wok, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili (if using). Sauté until fragrant.
Add Protein: Add crumbled tofu or vegan mince to the pan. Cook until the tofu is lightly browned or the vegan mince is heated through, stirring occasionally.
Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot and water chestnuts. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
Season the Filling: Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the San Choy Bao: Spoon the flavorful tofu or vegan mince mixture into the lettuce cups. Top with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the San Choy Bao cups on a platter and serve immediately. Encourage everyone to pick up a cup, and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.
Enjoy this delightful dish as a light meal or share it with friends and family as an appetizer or a light lunch. Happy cooking!
