Thai Lettuce Wraps

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wraps combine vibrant Thai flavors with a satisfying crunch, offering a low-carb, fresh alternative to heavier dishes. The combination of savory meat, fresh herbs, and crunchy veggies makes every bite a delicious experience. Plus, they’re customizable and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken, or turkey (or tofu for vegetarian)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts (optional for crunch)

• 1/4 cup shredded carrots

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 teaspoon brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or Sriracha (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

• 1 head butter lettuce or romaine leaves, separated and washed

• Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, lime wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook Meat or Tofu:
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add garlic and onion; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
   Add ground meat or tofu and cook until browned and cooked through.

2. Add Vegetables and Sauce:
   Stir in diced water chestnuts and shredded carrots.
   Add soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), lime juice, brown sugar, and chili flakes.
   Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

3. Add Herbs:
   Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and mint.

4. Assemble Wraps:
   Spoon the filling into individual lettuce leaves.
   Top with optional peanuts, green onions, and a squeeze of lime.

5. Serve:
   Serve immediately as appetizers or a light meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use crumbled tofu or cooked mushrooms instead of meat.

• Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies.

• Nuts: Substitute peanuts with cashews or almonds.

• Sauces: Serve with peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.

• Greens: Use iceberg lettuce or cabbage leaves if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked filling separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat filling in a skillet or microwave before assembling wraps.

• Lettuce: Keep lettuce leaves fresh and separate until ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef or turkey?

Yes, any ground meat works well.

How do I keep lettuce leaves crisp?

Wash, dry thoroughly, and store wrapped in paper towels in the fridge.

Can I prepare filling ahead of time?

Yes, prepare filling and refrigerate; assemble wraps before serving.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Use tofu or mushrooms and omit fish sauce or use a vegan alternative.

What can I serve with these wraps?

Serve with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.

How spicy are these wraps?

Adjust chili flakes to control heat level.

Can I freeze the filling?

Yes, freeze cooked filling for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, cucumbers, or bean sprouts are great additions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store filling and lettuce separately for best freshness.

Conclusion

Thai Lettuce Wraps are a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for a light meal or appetizer. Combining savory filling, fresh herbs, and crisp lettuce, they deliver vibrant Thai flavors in a healthy and fun way.