Easy Chinese Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

These Easy Chinese Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are a light, flavorful, and fun dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or appetizer. Filled with a savory, slightly spicy filling and drizzled with a creamy peanut sauce, these wraps are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and refreshing – Lettuce wraps are a low-carb alternative to traditional wraps or buns.
• Bursting with flavor – The savory filling and creamy peanut sauce create a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
• Great for sharing – Perfect as an appetizer or party snack.

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

• Ground chicken or turkey (or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option)
• Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce leaves (for wrapping)
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Green onions, chopped
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Hoisin sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional for heat)
• Peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• Creamy peanut butter
• Soy sauce
• Honey or maple syrup
• Lime juice
• Garlic, minced
• Water (to thin the sauce)

Directions

1. Prepare the filling:
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the garlic, ginger, and green onions until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the ground chicken (or substitute) and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mixture is well-coated and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
2. Make the peanut sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and minced garlic. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
3. Assemble the wraps:
   Wash and dry the lettuce leaves. Spoon the filling into the center of each leaf, drizzle with peanut sauce, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts. Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness.
4. Serve immediately:
   Enjoy these wraps as a light meal or appetizer. Serve with extra peanut sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh instead of ground meat.
• Spicy kick: Add extra sriracha or chili flakes to the filling or sauce.
• Crunchy twist: Toss in shredded carrots or water chestnuts for added texture.
• Nut-free sauce: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.
• Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the filling and peanut sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Assemble the wraps fresh for the best texture.

FAQs

• Can I use a different protein?
  Yes! Ground pork, beef, or shrimp work well too.
• What type of lettuce is best?
  Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce are great for their sturdy, cup-like leaves.
• Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
  Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Is this recipe gluten-free?
  Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
• Can I make it spicier?
  Yes, add more sriracha or a dash of chili oil to the filling or sauce.
• What can I serve with these wraps?
  Pair with steamed rice, spring rolls, or a simple cucumber salad.

Conclusion
These Easy Chinese Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these wraps are easy to make and endlessly customizable. Enjoy the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors in every bite!

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