Description
These Beef Lettuce Wraps are a quick and delicious meal featuring savory ground beef mixed with fresh vegetables and Asian-inspired flavors, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a light yet satisfying dish. Perfect for a healthy lunch or easy dinner, they deliver bold taste with minimal prep and cook time.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve
- 1 head butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking.
- Add vegetables and sauces: Stir in shredded carrots, diced water chestnuts, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, grated fresh ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper, mixing everything well.
- Simmer flavors: Cook the mixture for another 3–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are thoroughly combined.
- Remove from heat: Take the skillet off the heat to prevent overcooking.
- Assemble wraps: Spoon the beef mixture into individual butter or iceberg lettuce leaves.
- Garnish: Top each lettuce wrap with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the lettuce wraps immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Water chestnuts add crunch but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For extra heat, add sriracha or chili flakes to the beef mixture.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Wraps are best enjoyed fresh to maintain crisp lettuce texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian