Lettuce Wrap
This appetizer has been escalated to the ultimate state of being neither east nor west. We actually call it “Chopped Shrimp Lettuce Wrap” in Taiwan, meaning there is shrimp inside, you’re welcome, America!
You can find lettuce wraps in almost any Chinese restaurant in North America, it’s been marketed magically as a very delicate treat, um, only WITHOUT shrimp. (shrug)
I just adore finger foods (my favorite kind of food)! Something light, pretty and exquisite. Probably for the same reason why people (I really mean girls and kids) are madly in love with cupcakes.
Ingredients: One box of organic extra firm tofu (you can replace it with chopped pork, better yet, use shrimp). First you crumble the tofu and sautee with onions and shredded carrots. Then add a little soy sauce until the onion turns golden and carrots are softened. You will “need” to add cilantro and green onions towards the end to give it a kick. At the same time, start prepping the lettuce, crush the peanuts and slice some lemon.
Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle peanuts on top. Your choice, here but I suggest topping with a little Sriracha hot sauce, um… it’s kinda of Vietnamese but it was born for this gig. Whatever works, whatever tastes heavenly good!
It looks lovely and tastes uh-mazing, the flavor reminds me a summer break in Bangkok. Now we’re only missing some ice cold Chang beer to complete the scene. Good times!
