Larb is one of Southeast Asia's most electric dishes — bright, herby, funky, and deeply satisfying — and this plant-based version delivers every bit of that energy. Extra-firm tofu gets crumbled into rough, uneven pieces and pan-fried until golden and crisp, giving it a hearty, meaty texture that holds up beautifully against the bold dressing. The real secret weapon here is the toasted rice powder: jasmine rice dry-toasted until nutty and deep golden, then ground coarse, adding a subtle crunch and smoky depth you simply can't replicate with a shortcut. A punchy lime-and-tamari dressing ties everything together with shallots, fresh mint, cilantro, lemongrass, and green onions for layers of flavor that feel anything but simple. Because the protein here is tofu from start to finish, there's no need to navigate the murky territory of ground meat or processed proteins that can be tricky for anyone managing a red meat sensitivity. Serve it wrapped in cool butter lettuce leaves or spooned over steamed jasmine rice, and don't skip that extra sprinkle of rice powder at the table — it makes every bite.
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butter lettuce or cabbage leaves, for serving (optional)
steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1
Toast the rice in a small dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the grains are deep golden and smell nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle and grind to a coarse powder. Set aside.
2
Crumble the pressed tofu into rough, irregular pieces about the size of a large pea — uneven texture is ideal. Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the tofu in a single layer and cook, undisturbed, for 4–5 minutes until the underside is golden and crisp. Stir and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes until most pieces are golden and dry. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
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Red Meat Allergy Friendly Vegan Tofu Larb | Fig App