Lettuce Wraps
Try this Lettuce Wraps recipe.
Try this Lettuce Wraps recipe.
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (from about 4 limes)
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves roughly chopped, plus more for serving
- 1 small red jalapeno or fresno chile thinly sliced
- 1 pound ground pork or chicken
- i large head bibb or romaine lettuce separated into 15 large leaves
- chopped roasted salted peanuts for serving
- shredded carrots for serving
- Carbohydrate 0.899971110105662 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.00685333333966332 g
- Fiber 0.0257333328091486 g
- Protein 0.210086666803113 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00125066666838712 g
- Serving Size 1 1 wrap (41g)
- Sodium 111.567555743259 mg
- Sugar 0.874237777296514 g
- Trans Fat 0.00222066666865493 g
- Calories 4 calories
Step-by-step
- Whisk the lime juice, fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of the soy sauce and brown sugar in a large bowl until the sugar dissolves. Add the cilantro, scallions and chiles; set aside.
- Heat the chicken stock in a large skillet over medium heat until steaming but just below a simmer. Add the pork and the remaining teaspoon soy sauce, and cook, breaking into pieces with a spoon (not too small), until the meat is just cooked through and no longer pink, about 6 minutes.
- Add the ginger and garlic, and remove from the heat.
- Combine the chicken mixture with the lime mixture until well coated. Let sit for at least 15 minutes while the flavors combine.
- To assemble, put 1 to 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each lettuce leaf.
- Top with chopped peanuts, shredded carrots and chopped cilantro.
- Strain the remaining liquid from the filling, and serve on the side.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Lettuce Wraps
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running smoothly, whipping up elaborate dinners is often a luxury I can't afford. That's why I've fallen head over heels for this recipe for lettuce wraps. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s surprisingly satisfying, even for picky eaters! The best part? It’s adaptable; you can easily swap out the protein or add whatever vegetables you have on hand.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's something inherently comforting about a meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, leaving me with ample time to spend with my family. Forget complicated sauces and intricate techniques; this recipe focuses on fresh, vibrant flavors. The slightly sweet and tangy sauce perfectly complements the savory ground pork (or chicken!), while the crisp lettuce cups provide a refreshing counterpoint. And let's not forget the satisfying crunch of the peanuts and carrots – the perfect textural finish to this delicious dish.
What I really love about this dish is its versatility. One night, I might use ground chicken for a lighter option. Another time, I’ll add some finely chopped bell peppers or water chestnuts for extra color and texture. My kids especially love the customizable aspect; they get to pick their own toppings and build their perfect lettuce wrap! It’s a great way to get them involved in the cooking process and encourages them to try new things.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, these lettuce wraps are incredibly healthy too. Packed with lean protein, crunchy vegetables, and minimal carbohydrates, it's a guilt-free indulgence I can feel good about serving my family. The lettuce cups themselves provide a welcome dose of vitamins and fiber, which means I'm not just feeding my family a tasty meal, I’m nourishing them as well. This dish is a true win-win – a recipe that's both healthy and satisfying.
Beyond the Family Table: These aren't just for weeknight dinners. I've also taken these lettuce wraps to potlucks and gatherings, where they're always a crowd-pleaser. They're easy to transport and require no reheating, making them ideal for parties or picnics. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients always catch people’s eye and spark curiosity. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can make such a big impression!
Tips & Tricks:
- Prep Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making weeknight cooking even faster.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute ground turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for the ground pork or chicken.
- Veggie Variety: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, or sliced cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Spice it Up: For those who prefer a spicier kick, add more jalapeño or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
- Make it a Meal: Serve these lettuce wraps with a side of rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
This lettuce wrap recipe has become a staple in our home, a testament to the power of simple, healthy, and delicious cooking. It's the kind of recipe that's as much about the time saved as it is about the taste – and that, in the busy life of a working mom, is priceless.
