Introduction
Lettuce wraps are a delightful and healthy dish, perfect for a light meal or an appetizer. Combining tender chicken and fresh vegetables, these wraps are complemented with a creamy peanut sauce that adds an explosion of flavor. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the peanut sauce:
– 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce, or more to taste
– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
For the lettuce wraps:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 3.5 ounces shiitake mushrooms, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and diced
– 1 shallot, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– ¼ cup hoisin sauce
– 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 head butter lettuce
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This vibrant dish combines a range of textures and flavors, making it not only delicious but visually appealing. Enjoy the fresh taste of the lettuce wraps paired with the rich peanut sauce for a sensational dining experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and ginger until smooth. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of water to achieve the desired consistency. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken Mixture
Heat the vegetable oil and toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, diced shiitake mushrooms, carrot, and shallot. Cook until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes, breaking up the chicken as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
Incorporate Sauces
Add the hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and fish sauce to the skillet. Stir until the mixture is heated through, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped cilantro.
Assemble the Lettuce Wraps
To serve, spoon several tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each butter lettuce leaf. Drizzle with the prepared peanut sauce.
Notes
Consistency of Peanut Sauce
Adjust the amount of water added to the peanut sauce depending on your preferred thickness.
Cooking Time
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor and texture.
Storage
Leftover chicken mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisk together ingredients in a small bowl to create a smooth peanut sauce. Gradually add water to adjust the consistency as desired.
Sautéing
Heat oils in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding ground meat and vegetables. Cook until browned and tender, stirring frequently.
Minced
Use a knife or a garlic press to finely chop garlic and ginger, enhancing their flavors and allowing them to release their aromas quickly.
Mixing
Combine hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and fish sauce with the chicken mixture for added flavor. Stir until heated through.
Serving
Spoon the filling into butter lettuce leaves and drizzle with peanut sauce for a fresh and savory wrap.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or pork according to your preference.
How can I make the peanut sauce spicier?
Add more chili garlic sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to increase the spice level.
Is there a vegan alternative for the hoisin sauce?
Yes, look for vegan hoisin sauce or make your own using soy sauce, molasses, and other spices.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of butter lettuce?
You can use romaine or other leafy greens as a substitute for butter lettuce.
Conclusion
The peanut sauce and chicken lettuce wraps create a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making for a satisfying dish that is both healthy and delicious. The creamy peanut sauce complements the savory notes of the seasoned chicken and vegetables, while the fresh butter lettuce adds a refreshing crunch. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, allowing for exploration of different tastes and ingredient combinations.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the ground chicken with lentils or a mixture of diced tofu and vegetables to achieve a similar hearty texture.
For a spicy kick,
add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of Sriracha to the filling before serving.
Incorporate fruits,
such as diced mango or pineapple, for a sweet contrast that pairs well with the peanut sauce.
Try different nuts,
such as cashews or almonds, chopped and sprinkled on top for added crunch.
Swap out the sauce,
using a teriyaki or sweet chili sauce instead of hoisin for a different flavor profile.
Enhance the filling,
by adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Use different herbs,
like mint or Thai basil, in place of cilantro for a unique twist on freshness.
