LETTUCE WRAPS WITH GRILLED TOFU (SSAM)
Lettuce Wraps with Grilled Tofu, known as Ssam in Korean cuisine, are a fresh, spicy and healthy way to enjoy bold flavours in a light format. Typically served as part of a larger meal with various fillings and condiments, this simplified single-serving version keeps things minimal and satisfying. Grilled Tofu offers a tender bite and subtle smokiness, while gochujang and sesame oil add layers of heat, sweetness and nuttiness. This mixture is wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, in which each bite is refreshing and balanced, making this dish an excellent option for lunch, appetisers or a light dinner. Naturally low in carbs and high in plant-based protein, these wraps cater to vegan, gluten-free and health-focused lifestyles. This quick-to-prepare Korean-inspired recipe proves that clean eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor and it’s easily customisable with your favourite add-ins or sides.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Korean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Grill, No-Cook, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Back to School, Picnic, Casual Dinner, Date Night, Summer
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Quick & Easy, Vegan, Vegetarian, Low Carb, Low Fat, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Wheat/Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Tacos & Wraps, Salad, Protein Dish
INGREDIENTS
- 2 large lettuce leaves
- ¼ block tofu, grilled
- ½ teaspoon gochujang
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 slice garlic (optional)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 88 kcal
- Protein: 7.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 3.1 g
- Fat: 5.2 g
- Fibre: 1.1 g
- Sugar: 0.9 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Tofu: Slice the Tofu into 2–3 thick strips and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Grill The Tofu: Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook Tofu for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crispy.
- Season The Tofu: Brush with sesame oil and spread a small amount of gochujang over each slice while still warm.
- Assemble The Wraps: Lay out the lettuce leaves and place the tofu strips in the centre.
- Add Garlic (Optional): Add a thin slice of raw or roasted garlic to each wrap for added depth.
- Wrap And Serve: Fold the lettuce over the Tofu to form a wrap. Serve immediately while warm.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
8 minutes
TIPS
- Use Firm Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu grills better and retains its shape.
- Dry Tofu Thoroughly: Patting the Tofu dry helps to achieve a crisp texture on the grill.
- Choose Large Leaves: Romaine or red leaf lettuce works well for wrapping without tearing.
- Add Crunch: For extra texture, top it with shredded carrots or thin cucumber slices.
- Customise Spice Level: Mix gochujang with a bit of water or maple syrup to adjust heat and consistency.
VARIATIONS
- Add Pickled Veggies: Include pickled radish or kimchi for extra tang and probiotics.
- Swap Tofu: Use tempeh or grilled mushrooms for variation in flavour and texture.
- Protein Add-In: Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or roasted chickpeas for added protein.
- Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium gochujang or omit garlic salt blends for reduced sodium.
- Sweet Miso Glaze: Replace gochujang with a quick miso-honey blend for a sweeter profile.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store grilled Tofu and lettuce separately in sealed containers for up to 2 days.
- Reheat Tofu Gently: Rewarm tofu in a pan or microwave before assembling wraps.
- No Freezing: Lettuce and Tofu do not freeze well. Make fresh for the best texture and flavour.
- Meal Prep Ready: Pre-grill tofu and pack lettuce separately for an easy-packed lunch or picnic wrap.