Anti-Inflammatory Chinese Lettuce Cups

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1 medium eggplant

• 1 head of cauliflower

• 1/2 block of extra firm tofu

• 1 tbsp teriyaki sauce (find a soy-free and organic option. I like this one with coconut aminos or this keto-friendly version)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Sprinkle of black sesame seeds

• Himalayan salt

• Cracked black pepper

• Optional: top with kimchi for extra spice and probiotics

• Butter lettuce for cups

For the sauce:

• 1/2 chopped full-size carrot (if using baby carrots, slice up about four)

• About an inch or two of fresh ginger root

• 1 garlic clove, chopped

• Sprinkle of turmeric

• 2 tsp apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 tbsp tahini

• Dash of water

Directions:

Full of plant-based protein and ingredients like turmeric and ginger, and immune-boosting produce like cauliflower and eggplant, these Chinese lettuce cups are so delicious, you won't even believe how nutritious they are. Heat oven to 425°F. Chop eggplant and tofu into cubes, and slice cauliflower into smaller pieces. Add to a bowl and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour onto a pan and cook in oven for about 40 minutes, turning pieces mix every 15 minutes.

When 40 minutes is up, add Teriyaki sauce and sesame seeds, and let roast for another 5 minutes. Meanwhile, add the rest of the olive oil, chopped carrot, ginger, turmeric, ACV, tahini, and water to a blender or NutriBullet. Blend on high until well combined and creamy. Once it's ready, scoop filling into lettuce cups and top with extra sesame seeds. Pour sauce over or add to a small dish for dipping.

Important note: I believe in using specific countries, rather than vague regions, in order to honor and respect all cultures, which is why I do not use terms like "Asian" or "South American" in recipe titles. I like to use food as a way to learn about a variety of cultures. This particular dish was inspired by a Chinese recipe, but the main sauce/ingredient is Teriyaki, which has Japanese origins. For a more traditional Chinese dish, swap Teriyaki for Hoisin or soy sauce.

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