Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Lettuce wraps are a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Packed with vibrant flavors and customizable fillings, these wraps are sure to be a hit! Let’s dive into making this delicious dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken (or turkey, beef, or tofu for vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional, for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 head of iceberg lettuce (or butter lettuce), leaves separated and washed
• Sliced green onions and chopped peanuts, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add 1 lb of ground chicken (or your choice of protein) to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until browned and cooked through.
5. Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped water chestnuts and 1/2 cup of finely chopped mushrooms. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are softened.

Step 2: Season the Filling

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of Sriracha (if using).
2. Pour the sauce mixture over the filling in the skillet. Stir well to combine and coat the ingredients evenly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Step 3: Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

1. Take 1 head of iceberg lettuce (or butter lettuce) and carefully separate the leaves. Wash them thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the filling into the center of each lettuce leaf.
3. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped peanuts if desired.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the lettuce wraps on a serving platter.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy these fresh and flavorful lettuce wraps!

Tips for Success:

• Customize: Feel free to add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or any other favorite vegetables to the filling for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before assembling the wraps.
• Variation: Substitute the protein with tofu crumbles or add extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.

These easy lettuce wraps are a delicious way to enjoy a light and satisfying meal. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit at your table!