Best Asian Lettuce Cups Recipes

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ASIAN CHICKEN LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Chicken Lettuce Cups image

Provided by Guy Fieri

Categories     appetizer

Time 45m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 28

1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced peeled ginger
1 tablespoon sambal oelek (Asian chili sauce)
1 tablespoon plum sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted
1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
6 tablespoons canola oil
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, diced
1/3 cup diced carrot
1/3 cup diced celery
1/3 cup diced red bell pepper
1/3 cup diced sugar snap peas
1/3 cup diced red onion
1 teaspoon minced peeled ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/3 cup mung bean sprouts, halved
1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushroom caps
2 tablespoons diced scallions
1 tablespoon crushed peanuts
6 wonton wrappers
Kosher salt
Iceberg lettuce leaves, for serving
1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds

Steps:

  • Make the sauce: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Stir again just before using.
  • Prepare the cups: Heat 2 tablespoons canola oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 3 minutes. Add the carrot, celery, bell pepper, peas and red onion and stir-fry about 3 minutes. Add the ginger, garlic, sprouts and shiitakes. Add 1/4 cup of the prepared sauce and cook until thickened, about 30 seconds, scraping up any browned bits. Transfer the stir-fry to a bowl; top with the scallions and peanuts.
  • Wipe out the skillet. Heat the remaining 4 tablespoons canola oil over high heat. Fry the wontons until golden and crisp, about 15 seconds per side. Transfer to paper towels and season with salt.
  • Fill the lettuce leaves with the stir-fry. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds. Crumble the wontons on top or serve alongside. Serve with the remaining sauce.

ASIAN TURKEY LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Turkey Lettuce Cups image

Such a cool idea for a light lunch or even an appetizer simply served in small lettuce leaves. When I want to make it easier for my kids to eat, I mix it all up with shredded lettuce and serve in a bowl. -Diana Rios, Lytle, Texas

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon Thai chili sauce, optional
1 pound lean ground turkey
1 celery rib, chopped
1 tablespoon minced fresh gingerroot
1 garlic clove, minced
1 can (8 ounces) water chestnuts, drained and chopped
1 medium carrot, shredded
2 cups cooked brown rice
8 Bibb or Boston lettuce leaves

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil and, if desired, chili sauce until blended. In a large skillet, cook turkey and celery 6-9 minutes or until turkey is no longer pink, breaking up turkey into crumbles; drain., Add ginger and garlic to turkey; cook 2 minutes. Stir in soy sauce mixture, water chestnuts and carrot; cook 2 minutes longer. Stir in rice; heat through. Serve in lettuce leaves.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 353 calories, Fat 13g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 90mg cholesterol, Sodium 589mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

ASIAN CHICKEN SALAD LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups image

"I serve this salad in lettuce leaves or in pita pockets to friends who enjoy something a bit out of the ordinary. This is fast, easy, a bit exotic and, best of all, delicious." If you like peanut butter, this is the chicken salad for you! Mary Bergfeld - Eugene, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 20m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

3/4 cup reduced-fat sesame ginger salad dressing
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 to 3 teaspoons cider vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 packages (6 ounces each) ready-to-use grilled chicken breast strips
4 cups chopped cucumbers
1 cup chopped sweet red pepper
3/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup grated carrot
8 Bibb or Boston lettuce leaves
Chopped fresh cilantro, optional

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, whisk the first seven ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cucumbers, pepper, onions and carrot. Drizzle with dressing; toss to coat. Chill until serving. Serve on lettuce leaves. Garnish with cilantro if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 237 calories, Fat 13g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 42mg cholesterol, Sodium 1253mg sodium, Carbohydrate 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 19g protein.

MINI ASIAN MEATBALLS IN LETTUCE CUPS



Mini Asian Meatballs in Lettuce Cups image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Meat & Poultry     Beef Recipes     Ground Beef Recipes

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/2 cup chopped garlic (from 12 cloves)
3 tablespoons chopped peeled fresh ginger (from a 3-inch piece)
3 scallions, chopped (1/4 cup)
1 pound ground beef (80 percent lean)
1 teaspoon fish sauce, such as nam pla
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Bibb lettuce leaves, cilantro sprigs, sliced Thai chiles, and chopped roasted peanuts, for serving

Steps:

  • Finely chop together garlic, ginger, and scallions. In a bowl, gently combine garlic mixture with ground beef, fish sauce, and salt. Form mixture into 52 meatballs, each 1 inch in diameter.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over high. Working in batches, fry meatballs until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes a batch.
  • In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and lime juice. Serve meatballs in lettuce cups, with lime mayonnaise and accompaniments.

ASIAN PORK LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Pork Lettuce Cups image

Provided by Katie Lee Biegel

Categories     appetizer

Time 20m

Yield 8 servings (16 lettuce cups)

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/3 cup hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 teaspoons grated ginger
1 clove garlic, grated
One 14-ounce package rice vermicelli noodles
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 pounds cooked pork chops, sliced into strips
1 head Bibb lettuce, separated into leaves
Serving suggestions: chopped peanuts, mint leaves, cilantro leaves, bean sprouts and Sriracha

Steps:

  • In a bowl, whisk the hoisin sauce with the vinegar, ginger and garlic.
  • Soak the rice noodles in very hot water until soft, according to package instructions. Cut into smaller pieces for serving.
  • Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add pork chop strips and quickly stir-fry until warmed through. Add the hoisin mixture and toss to coat. Remove from the heat.
  • Serve the pork family style in lettuce cups topped with chopped peanuts, mint, cilantro, bean sprouts and Sriracha and the rice noodles on the side.

ASIAN LETTUCE CUPS WITH SPICY GROUND TURKEY FILLING



Asian Lettuce Cups With Spicy Ground Turkey Filling image

Having two teenage boys and trying to stay on a diet can be impossible. I am really trying to reduce my carbs and I found this recipe on kalyn's kitchen blog. They loved it! Good for a phase 1 South Beach diet too.

Provided by mary winecoff

Categories     Poultry

Time 30m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 tablespoons red onions or 3 tablespoons shallots, minced
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons ginger, minced
1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
4 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon chile garlic sauce (I used more)
1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
1 cup cilantro, chopped
1/3 cup peanuts, chopped (optional)
1 head romaine lettuce

Steps:

  • Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and add the onion and saute for about 2 minutes. Add garlic and ginger root and saute about 1 minute more.
  • Add ground turkey and break apart, then add soy sauce, chili garlic and fish sauce if using. Cook until the turkey is brown and crumbling apart and the sauce is slightly reduce, about 5 minutes.
  • When turkey is done, add chopped cilantro and cook 1-2 minutes more. Serve filling and lettuce leaves in separate bowl, with chopped peanuts in another. Fill lettuce leaves with filling and add chopped nuts if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 338.3, Fat 17.1, SaturatedFat 4, Cholesterol 117.5, Sodium 1120.3, Carbohydrate 10.2, Fiber 4.1, Sugar 2.6, Protein 38

ASIAN CHICKEN SALAD LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups image

Entertaining is easy with a fresh-tasting appetizer that can be ready in 15 minutes.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Appetizer

Time 15m

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 cups finely chopped cooked chicken
4 medium green onions, diagonally sliced (1/4 cup)
1 can (8 oz) sliced water chestnuts, drained, finely chopped
1/2 cup spicy peanut sauce (from 7-oz bottle)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
24 small (about 3 inch) Bibb lettuce leaves (about 1 1/2 heads), breaking larger leaves into smaller size
1/2 cup chopped roasted salted peanuts

Steps:

  • In medium bowl, mix all ingredients except lettuce and peanuts.
  • Spoon about 2 tablespoons chicken mixture onto each lettuce leaf. Sprinkle with peanuts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 60, Carbohydrate 2 g, Cholesterol 10 mg, Fat 1/2, Fiber 0 g, Protein 5 g, SaturatedFat 1/2 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 35 mg, Sugar 0 g, TransFat 0 g

ASIAN TURKEY MEATBALLS IN LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Turkey Meatballs in Lettuce Cups image

Make and share this Asian Turkey Meatballs in Lettuce Cups recipe from Food.com.

Provided by kbillq

Categories     Meatballs

Time 25m

Yield 6 meatballs, 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 tablespoon asian fish sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 pinch red pepper flakes
1 lb ground turkey breast
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
12 large boston lettuce leaves
1 small cucumber, cut into matchsticks
1 cup mint leaf

Steps:

  • For the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and pepper flakes; set aside at room temperature.
  • For the meatballs: In a large bowl, stir together turkey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, vinegar and soy sauce. Form mixture into 24 (2-inch) meatballs.
  • Lightly coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat to medium-high. Add meatballs in two batches and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, 5 to 7 minutes for each batch.
  • Lay 3 lettuce leaves on each of 4 plates. Place 2 meatballs on top of each leaf. Top meatballs with cucumber and mint leaves, drizzle with dressing and serve.
  • Per serving: 180 calories, 6 g fat, 0.5 g saturated fat, 30 g protein, 4 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 480 mg sodium.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 186.5, Fat 4.9, SaturatedFat 0.9, Cholesterol 70.4, Sodium 502.3, Carbohydrate 5.4, Fiber 1.2, Sugar 1.7, Protein 29.4

ASIAN LETTUCE CUPS WITH SPICY GROUND TURKEY FILLING



ASIAN LETTUCE CUPS WITH SPICY GROUND TURKEY FILLING image

Categories     turkey

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 T peanut oil or vegetable oil (or slightly more, depending on the pan you have)
3 T minced red onion or shallots
2 T minced garlic (I used minced garlic from a jar but fresh garlic would be even better)
2 T grated ginger root
1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey
4 T soy sauce (I used Tamari)
1 T Chile Garlic Sauce (or slightly more if you like spicy foods)
1 tsp. fish sauce (probably optional, although I like fish sauce!)
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (about 1/2 large bunch)
1/3 cup chopped peanuts (optional, especially for braces wearers!)
1 large head or 2 small heads Boston Lettuce or butter lettuce, or substitute 1 head iceberg lettuce

Steps:

  • Instructions: Chop onion and set aside. Peel ginger root, then grate with the large side of a cheese grater, and chop garlic if using fresh garlic. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan, add onion and saute about 2 minutes, then add garlic and ginger root and saute about one minute more. Add ground turkey to frying pan (with a bit more oil if needed) and break apart and spread out with turner, then add soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and fish sauce. Cook until the turkey is brown and crumbling apart, and the sauce is slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. While turkey cooks, wash and chop fresh cilantro to make 1 cup. Remove the core end from lettuce, separate leaves, and wash in salad spinner and spin dry (or wash under running water and dry with paper towels.) Chop peanuts and put in small bowl to serve at the table. When turkey is done, add chopped cilantro and cook 1-2 minutes more. Serve filling and lettuce leaves in separate bowls, with chopped peanuts in another small bowl. Each person takes a lettuce leaf, fills with desired amount of turkey mixture, adds chopped peanuts, and then eats the mixture.

ASIAN BEEF LETTUCE CUPS



ASIAN BEEF LETTUCE CUPS image

Categories     Beef

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 piece (4 inches) cucumber
1 sweet red pepper
1 carrot
2 green onions
8 leaves Boston or leaf lettuce
Lime wedges
1 lb. Lean Ground Beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon minced gingerroot
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
¼ cup hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Asian chili sauce or hot pepper sauce

Steps:

  • 1. Cut cucumber in half lengthwise; thinly slice crosswise. Seed, core and slice red pepper thinly; Grate carrot. Thinly slice green onions. Arrange vegetables, lettuce and lime wedges on serving platter. 2. (Make ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours). 3. In large nonstick skillet, sauté beef over medium-high heat; breaking up with spoon until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain off any fat. 4. Ad garlic, ginger and five-spice powder, cook over medium heat, stirring until aromatic, about 2 minutes. Add hoisin sauce, soy sauce and chili sauce. Cook stirring until hot, about 4 minutes. (Make ahead, let cool for 30 minutes, refrigerate uncovered until cold. Refrigerate in air tight container for up to 24 hours, reheat to serve. 5. Transfer to bowl. Let each person spoon ½ cup beef mixture into each lettuce leaf. Top with some cucumber, red pepper, carrot and green onions. Wrap lettuce around filling.

ASIAN LETTUCE CUPS



ASIAN LETTUCE CUPS image

Categories     turkey

Yield 5 servings

Number Of Ingredients 20

1 T peanut oil or vegetable oil (or slightly more, depending on the pan you have)
3 T minced red onion or shallots
2 T minced garlic (I used minced garlic from a jar but fresh garlic would be even better)
2 T grated ginger root
1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey
4 T soy sauce
1 T Chile Garlic Sauce
1 tsp. fish sauce
1 package of mushrooms, any variety, roughly chopped
1 can of waterchestnuts, drained & minced
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (about 1/2 large bunch)
1/3 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
1 large head or 2 small heads Boston Lettuce or butter lettuce, or substitute 1 head iceberg lettuce
Dipping sauce
3 tablespoons sesame seeds
3/4 cup soy sauce
3/4 cup unseasoned rice vinegar*
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon oriental sesame oil
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Steps:

  • For dipping sauce: Stir sesame seeds in heavy small skillet over medium heat until golden, about 5 minutes. Place toasted sesame seeds in small bowl; cool. Mix in soy sauce, unseasoned rice vinegar, fresh lime juice, oriental sesame oil, and cayenne pepper. For wraps: Chop onion and set aside. Peel ginger root, then grate with the large side of a cheese grater, and chop garlic if using fresh garlic. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan, add onion and saute about 2 minutes, then add garlic and ginger root and saute about one minute more. Add waterchestnuts and ground turkey to frying pan (with a bit more oil if needed) and break apart and spread out with turner, then add mushrooms, soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, and fish sauce. Cook until the turkey is brown and crumbling apart, and the sauce is slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. While turkey cooks, wash and chop fresh cilantro to make 1 cup. Remove the core end from lettuce, separate leaves, and wash in salad spinner and spin dry (or wash under running water and dry with paper towels.) Chop peanuts and put in small bowl to serve at the table. When turkey is done, add chopped cilantro and cook 1-2 minutes more. Serve filling and lettuce leaves in separate bowls, with chopped peanuts in another small bowl. Each person takes a lettuce leaf, fills with desired amount of turkey mixture, adds chopped peanuts, and then eats the mixture from the lettuce cup. I fold the lettuce cup over when I eat it, so it's kind of taco-shaped, but some people like to wrap the lettuce clear around the filling.

ASIAN MEATBALLS WITH LETTUCE CUPS RECIPE



Asian Meatballs with Lettuce Cups Recipe image

Provided by kathya5084

Number Of Ingredients 17

For Meatballs
2 pounds ground pork
12 ounces sweet Italian sausage, casings removed (I use 3 Johnsonville links)
2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger (divided in half)
2 small shallots, minced
3/4 cup finely chopped water chestnuts
8 teaspoons soy sauce (divided in half)
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh cilantro
Kosher salt
2 heads bibb or butter lettuce, leaves separated
For Sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups.chicken stock
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili paste

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 400. For meatballs Cover a large high rimmed cookie sheet or roasting pan with foil. In a medium bowl, use a fork to combine pork, sausage, salt, 1 tablespoon ginger, shallots, water chestnuts, 4 teaspoons soy sauce and cilantro. Form the mixture into 1 1/2 inch balls. Bake the meatballs 25 minutes until brown. After 12 minutes rotate the pan and turn the meatballs to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and set aside or place in slow cooker. For Sauce Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water. In a large sauce pan over medium heat, saute the the remaining ginger and garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in chicken stock, remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili paste. Bring the mixture to a boil, whisk in the corn starch mixture, and simmer until thickened, about 1 minute. Pour the warm sauce over the meatballs. The meatballs may be held in the sauce, covered over very low heat for 2 hours, or in a slow cooker on low for up to 4 hours. These can be made ahead and reheat well. Store the sauce and meatballs in separate containers. If frozen, thaw out the sauce, place the frozen meatballs in a slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Makes 48 meatballs. Calories: Meatball 58 each. Sauce 6 per tablespoon. Lettuce 1 per leaf.

ASIAN TURKEY LETTUCE CUPS



ASIAN TURKEY LETTUCE CUPS image

Categories     Poultry     Vegetable     Appetizer     Side     Dinner     Lunch     Healthy

Yield 1

Number Of Ingredients 16

4 oz ground lean turkey
1/2 cup white mushrooms, chopped
1 tsp minced garlic
1/4 cup shelled and cooked edamame
2 Boston lettuce leaves
2 Tbsp sliced scallion
Sauce
1/2 Tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 tsp rice vinegar
Asian Slaw
1/2 cup shredded red cabbage and green cabbage
1/4 cup sliced jicama
1/4 cup grated carrot
1 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp rice vinegar

Steps:

  • In a nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, sauté first three ingredients for five minutes. Add edamame, scoop mix onto lettuce, top with scallion, and wrap up. Drizzle with sauce, and serve slaw on the side.

ASIAN BEEF IN LETTUCE CUPS



Asian Beef in Lettuce Cups image

You can carry the warmth of a family dinner into the week with this Asian twist on leftover roast beef.

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Beef Recipes

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 pound leftover Roast with Potatoes, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, basil, or mint leaves
Boston lettuce

Steps:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Cook onion, garlic, and red pepper until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes. Add soy sauce; cook until evaporated, about 2 minutes.
  • Turn off heat; stir in eye of round slices until heated through. Stir in peanuts, vinegar, and cilantro. Serve in Boston lettuce cups.

ASIAN CHICKEN LETTUCE CUPS



ASIAN CHICKEN LETTUCE CUPS image

Categories     Chicken     Tailgating

Yield 6-8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 40

For the Sauce:
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced peeled ginger
1 tablespoon sambal oelek (Asian chili sauce)
1 tablespoon plum sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted
1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
For the Cups:
6 tablespoons canola oil
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, diced
1/3 cup diced carrot
1/3 cup diced celery
1/3 cup diced red bell pepper
1/3 cup diced sugar snap peas
1/3 cup diced red onion
1 teaspoon minced peeled ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/3 cup mung bean sprouts, halved
1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushroom caps
2 tablespoons diced scallions
1 tablespoon crushed peanuts
6 wonton wrappers
Kosher salt
Iceberg lettuce leaves, for serving
1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds
Directions
Make the sauce: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Stir again just before using.
Prepare the cups: Heat 2 tablespoons canola oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 3 minutes. Add the carrot, celery, bell pepper, peas and red onion and stir-fry about 3 minutes. Add the ginger, garlic, sprouts and shiitakes. Add 1/4 cup of the prepared sauce and cook until thickened, about 30 seconds, scraping up any browned bits. Transfer the stir-fry to a bowl; top with the scallions and peanuts.
Wipe out the skillet. Heat the remaining 4 tablespoons canola oil over high heat. Fry the wontons until golden and crisp, about 15 seconds per side. Transfer to paper towels and season with salt.
Fill the lettuce leaves with the stir-fry. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds. Crumble the wontons on top or serve alongside. Serve with the remaining sauce.
Photograph by Andrew Mccaul
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Steps:

  • Make the sauce: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Stir again just before using. Prepare the cups: Heat 2 tablespoons canola oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 3 minutes. Add the carrot, celery, bell pepper, peas and red onion and stir-fry about 3 minutes. Add the ginger, garlic, sprouts and shiitakes. Add 1/4 cup of the prepared sauce and cook until thickened, about 30 seconds, scraping up any browned bits. Transfer the stir-fry to a bowl; top with the scallions and peanuts. Wipe out the skillet. Heat the remaining 4 tablespoons canola oil over high heat. Fry the wontons until golden and crisp, about 15 seconds per side. Transfer to paper towels and season with salt. Fill the lettuce leaves with the stir-fry. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds. Crumble the wontons on top or serve alongside. Serve with the remaining sauce.

ASIAN LETTUCE CUPS RECIPE



Asian Lettuce Cups Recipe image

How to make Asian Lettuce Cups Recipe

Provided by @MakeItYours

Number Of Ingredients 18

The Sauce:
1-1/2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce
Filling:
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 stalks, scallions
1 pound ground turkey or chicken
2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen pea/carrots, finely diced bell peppers, etc.)
1/2 green apple, finely diced
Toppings/Wrap:
1 head boston bibb lettuce, leaves washed and separated
2 skeins, Mung Bean Noodles
2 medium carrots, Use vegetable peeler to peel cut carrot into paper thin strips. Use knife to further cut into super duper thin strands. Or, use the handy kitchen gadget

Steps:

  • To fry the mung bean noodles, heat a wok or small sauce pan (something not too wide at its base. the smaller the base width, the less oil you will need to use) with about 2 inches of cooking oil. While oil is heating to 375F, use your hands to separate the strands of the mung bean noodle into small clumps. When oil hot, fry one batch at a time. It should only take 10 seconds to fry. Remove, drain on paper towels.
  • Combine the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
  • To make the filling, heat wok on high heat with cooking oil. When oil is hot, add scallions, ginger and garlic and fry a few seconds until fragrant. Add turkey or chicken and fry until almost cooked through. Add the vegetables and cook 1 minute. Add sauce ingredients. Let simmer for 1 minute to thicken slightly.
  • Add the apples. Toss to coat. Immediately remove from heat. You don't want to "cook" the apples - keep them nice and crunchy. Serve with lettuce cups, carrot shavings and fried mung bean noodles.

Asian lettuce cups are a refreshing, healthy and low-carb alternative to standard wraps and sandwiches. These cups consist of crisp leaves of iceberg, butter or romaine lettuce filled with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, herbs, and other condiments. Often served as an appetizer or a light meal, Asian lettuce cups are becoming increasingly popular as a healthy snack or lunch option for those looking for a gluten-free, low-calorie option. In this article, we will explore the history, nutritional benefits, and various types of Asian lettuce cup recipes.

History

Lettuce cups have been a part of Chinese cuisine for hundreds of years as a snack or complement to a meal. The imperial court in Beijing in the 1800s was known for serving lettuce cups filled with a variety of ingredients, including delicate seafood, chicken, and vegetables. These delicacies were enjoyed by the wealthy upper class and are still served in some traditional Chinese restaurants today. In the 1980s, the dish became mainstream in the United States through a chain of popular restaurants serving upscale Asian cuisine.

Nutritional Benefits

Asian lettuce cups are an excellent source of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, especially if they are packed with vegetables and lean protein. The lettuce cups are low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates, making them an ideal option for those trying to maintain a healthy diet or lose weight. The lettuce itself provides a range of vitamins, including Vitamin C, which helps improve the immune system, and Vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. The fillings like chicken and tofu provide high-quality protein, and the vegetables are rich in fiber, keeping you fuller for longer.

Types of Lettuce

The type of lettuce chosen for Asian lettuce cups is essential as the lettuce must be sturdy enough to hold the filling and have a mild taste so that it will not overpower the other ingredients. The three most commonly used lettuces for lettuce cups are:
Iceberg lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is widely used for lettuce cups due to its crisp texture and mild flavor. It adds an excellent crunch to the dish and is easy to clean and prepare.
Romaine lettuce
Romaine is another popular choice that is easy to remove from the head and has a sturdy texture. It is also slightly more nutritious than iceberg lettuce as it has a better nutrient-to-calorie ratio.
Butter lettuce
Butter lettuce is known for its tender leaves, which makes it a great option for lettuce cups due to its softer texture and buttery taste. It also contains more nutrients than iceberg lettuce.

Ingredients

There are countless variations of Asian lettuce cups, which makes the dish versatile and adaptable to preferences and dietary requirements. The common ingredients used in lettuce cups include:
Protein
Asian lettuce cups can be filled with a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp. Tofu is also an excellent meat-free alternative available to vegetarians and vegans. The meat or tofu adds essential protein to the dish, keeping you full and energized.
Veggies
Lettuce cups can be filled with any type of vegetables, including bell peppers, onions, water chestnuts, and cabbage, carrot, cucumber, sprouts, and mushroom. Veggies add nutrition, texture, and bulk to the dish, making it more filling and exciting.
Sauces and seasonings
Asian lettuce cups are often seasoned with garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, or fish sauce. These flavorful sauces make the dish more exciting and add a sweet or savory component to the dish.
Herbs and aromatics
Herbs, including cilantro, mint, and basil, are often added to the dish to provide a refreshing and aromatic flavor. These herbs also add color and texture to the dish, making it more visually appealing.

Cooking Techniques

The meat or tofu used in Asian lettuce cups can be cooked in different ways, including grilling, roasting, stir-frying, and pan-searing. Vegetables should be chopped into small pieces to fit inside the lettuce cups and can be either raw or cooked. The lettuce cups themselves don’t require any preparation, but the leaves should be washed and dried before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Asian lettuce cups can be served as a healthy appetizer or a light meal. The filled lettuce cups should be arranged on a platter or tray and accompanied by different sauces, such as sriracha, soy sauce, or sweet chili sauce, to add flavors to the dish. Some recipes also suggest serving the lettuce wraps with a side of rice or noodles to achieve a more substantial meal.

Conclusion

Asian lettuce cups are a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prep and make. The dish offers endless variations, allowing cooks to fit in any flavor profile or dietary requirements. The low carb and calorie nature of the dish makes it perfect for diets, but with the range of proteins, vegetables, and seasonings available, it is both filling and satisfying.

Tips for Making Asian Lettuce Cups

Asian lettuce cups are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer or as a main meal. A lettuce cup typically consists of a protein, such as ground pork or chicken, and is served in a cup-shaped lettuce leaf with a variety of sauces and toppings. It is a healthy and satisfying dish that is easy to make and perfect for those who are looking for a low-carb option. If you're planning to make Asian lettuce cups, it's important to keep in mind some essential tips that will help you achieve the best possible results. Here are some tips that you should consider:
1. Choose the Right Lettuce
When choosing lettuce to use as cups, you need to choose a variety that is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without breaking or tearing. Some of the best lettuce varieties for this dish are iceberg lettuce, butter lettuce, and romaine lettuce. These varieties have a crisp texture and a slight sweetness that pairs well with the savory fillings.
2. Preparation is Key
Before you start assembling your lettuce cups, you need to prep all the ingredients first. This means finely chopping or dicing vegetables, cooking the protein, and preparing any sauces or toppings required. Having all the ingredients ready beforehand will save you time and make the process smoother.
3. Use the Right Protein
The protein is the star of your lettuce cups, so it's essential to choose the right protein for your dish. Ground chicken, turkey, pork, and beef are all good options. If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the protein with cooked lentils, tofu or tempeh.
4. Season the Filling
Seasoning the fillings is an essential step in making flavorful Asian lettuce cups. Use a variety of seasonings such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, for a complex and rich flavor in the filling.
5. Don’t Overfill the Lettuce Cups
When assembling your lettuce cups, it's essential not to overfill them. Overfilling the cup can cause the lettuce to break, and the filling can fall out. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per cup.
6. Use a Variety of Toppings
Using a variety of toppings will add texture and depth to your lettuce cups. Toppings such as chopped peanuts, scallions, cilantro, carrots, and bean sprouts will provide a contrast of flavors and colors.
7. Serve with Sauces
Sauces are an essential part of Asian cuisine, and lettuce cups are no exception. Serving the lettuce cups with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or soy sauce will elevate the flavors in your dish.
8. Presentation is Key
Presentation is everything when it comes to food, and lettuce cups are no exception. Arrange the lettuce cups on a platter and add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and cilantro on top for a pop of color.
9. Be Creative with Fillings
Don't be afraid to experiment with the fillings in your lettuce cups. Try substituting the protein with shrimp or adding different vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. The possibilities are endless, and you never know what new flavor combination you might discover.
10. Storage
If you have leftovers or need to make your lettuce cups in advance, store the filling separately from the lettuce cups. This will prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy and help maintain its crunchiness. In conclusion, following these tips will ensure that you make the perfect Asian lettuce cups that everyone will enjoy. From choosing the right lettuce to being creative with the fillings, these tips will help you create a dish that is not only healthy but also delicious. Consider these tips the next time you make Asian lettuce cups and impress your guests with your culinary skills.

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