Bang Bang Tofu Lettuce Wraps

Bang Bang Tofu Lettuce Wraps are one of those meals that feel light but still fill you up. You get the crunch from crisp lettuce, the heat and creaminess from the sauce, and the golden edges of air-fried tofu all in one bite. It is fresh, a little messy in the best way, and perfect for when you want something flavorful in a short amount of time.

Tofu is such a dependable base for bold sauces. Once you press out the extra moisture and give it time in the air fryer, it transforms into firm, crispy cubes that hold their shape beautifully. Tossed in ready-made bang bang sauce, the tofu becomes sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy all at once. You can certainly make your own sauce, but I often reach for a store-bought version for the convenience.

The contrast is what makes these wraps special. Cool, crisp lettuce cradles the warm tofu. Shredded carrots add sweetness and crunch, red onions bring sharpness, and green onions give that fresh bite at the end. A sprinkle of sesame seeds ties it all together with subtle nuttiness. A spoonful of chili crisp on top adds a little extra heat and that irresistible crackly texture.

They work as a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a build-your-own platter with other filling options for casual entertaining. Once you try them, you may find yourself keeping tofu and bang bang sauce on hand just to make these again.

How to Make Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Bang Bang Sauce

Looking for a light but flavorful meal? These Bang Bang Tofu Lettuce Wraps are sweet, spicy, and packed with texture. Air-fried tofu cubes are coated in sauce and tucked into crisp lettuce with carrots and green onions. Makes an easy low-carb meal.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14–16 oz) extra firm tofu
• 12–16 large lettuce leaves (butter lettuce, romaine hearts, iceberg cups, or any lettuce of your choice)
• ½ to ¾ cup ready-made bang bang sauce
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onions
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 to 2 tablespoons chili crisp, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon oil (optional, for lightly coating tofu before air frying)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: squeeze of lime, sliced cucumbers, or chili flakes or chili crunch for garnish

Prep / Mise En Place

1. Press tofu for at least 20 to 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. Wash and dry lettuce leaves carefully. Keep them whole and chilled.
3. Slice red onions thinly.
4. Shred carrots if not pre-shredded.
5. Slice green onions.
6. Cut pressed tofu into even cubes.

Instructions

1. Wrap tofu in paper towels and place a heavy skillet or plate on top. Let it press for 20 to 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.
2. Cut tofu into bite-sized cubes. Lightly toss with a small amount of oil, salt, and pepper if desired.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375 to 400°F. Arrange tofu cubes in a single layer and air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake or stir fry tofu cubes.
4. Transfer hot tofu to a bowl. Toss gently with bang bang sauce until evenly coated.
5. Spoon sauced tofu into lettuce leaves. Top with shredded carrots, red onions, green onions, and sesame seeds. 
6. Drizzle or spoon a small amount of chili crisp over each wrap for added heat and crunch. 
7. Serve immediately while the tofu is warm and the lettuce is crisp.

If you like extra spice, serve additional chili crisp on the side so everyone can adjust the heat level to their preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a squeeze of lime or extra drizzle of sauce if desired.
• Serve with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles on the side.
• Add sliced cucumbers or avocado for extra freshness.
• Pair with a light cucumber salad or miso soup.

Leftover Ideas

• Use leftover tofu filling in rice bowls with steamed vegetables.
• Stuff into tortillas for spicy tofu tacos.
• Add to a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted vegetables.
• Toss with cooked noodles for a quick bang bang tofu noodle dish.

Light, crunchy, and packed with spice, these wraps strike the perfect balance. They are quick enough for busy nights but impressive enough to serve to guests.