Savory Asian-Style Lettuce Wraps with Hoisin Sauce
Indulge in these savory Asian-style lettuce wraps that are bursting with flavor, reminiscent of your favorite takeout dish at PF Chang's. While they may require a bit of effort, the result is a satisfying, healthy dinner option that feels light yet filling. The combination of lean ground beef and textured vegetable protein not only enhances the texture but also reduces fat content, making these wraps a guilt-free delight. Each wrap is a perfect blend of crunchy lettuce, tender meat, and a zesty hoisin sauce that makes every bite a delicious adventure. Serve them alongside a bowl of homemade hot and sour soup and crispy egg rolls for a complete meal that will impress your family or guests!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boston Bibb or Butter Lettuce
1 head (Rinsed and dried)
Sesame Oil
1 teaspoon (N/A)
Low Sodium Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Rice Vinegar
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Chili Paste
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Sugar
to taste (Optional)
Lean Ground Beef
1/2 lb (N/A)
Textured Vegetable Protein
1/4 cup (Re-hydrated in 1/4 cup beef broth)
Onion
1 (Diced)
Garlic Cloves
2 (Minced)
Low Sodium Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Hoisin Sauce
1/4 cup (N/A)
Fresh Ginger
2 teaspoons (Grated)
Rice Wine Vinegar
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Chili Paste
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Water Chestnuts
1 can (6 ounces) (Drained and finely chopped)
Green Onion
1 bunch (Chopped)
Dark Sesame Oil
2 teaspoons (N/A)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of these lettuce wraps?
These wraps offer a savory and zesty flavor profile inspired by Asian cuisine, featuring a balance of hoisin sauce, ginger, and garlic.
What type of lettuce is recommended for this recipe?
Boston Bibb or Butter Lettuce is recommended because the leaves are soft, pliable, and naturally shaped like cups.
What is Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)?
TVP is a soy-based ingredient used here to enhance the texture of the filling while reducing the overall fat content.
How do I prepare the TVP for this dish?
The TVP should be re-hydrated by soaking 1/4 cup of it in 1/4 cup of beef broth before adding it to the mixture.
Is this recipe similar to restaurant-style wraps?
Yes, these wraps are designed to be reminiscent of the popular lettuce wraps found at PF Chang's.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy dinner option that is low in fat and features lean protein sources.
What provide the crunch in the filling?
Finely chopped water chestnuts provide a signature crunch that contrasts with the tender meat filling.
How should the lettuce be prepared?
The lettuce should be rinsed, thoroughly dried, and kept as whole leaves for wrapping.
What is in the sauce for these wraps?
The sauce includes hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from the chili paste, but the heat level can be adjusted by adding more or less to taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free hoisin sauce and substitute the soy sauce with tamari.
What role does fresh ginger play?
Grated fresh ginger adds a bright, aromatic, and slightly spicy note that is essential for the authentic Asian flavor.
How many ingredients are needed?
This recipe utilizes 18 specific ingredients to create its complex and savory flavor profile.
Can I use regular onions instead of green onions?
The recipe uses both a diced onion for the base and chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Is sugar necessary in this recipe?
Sugar is optional and can be added to the sauce 'to taste' to balance the saltiness and acidity.
What should I serve as a side dish?
It is recommended to serve these with homemade hot and sour soup and crispy egg rolls for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the meat filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; store lettuce separately to keep it crisp.
What is the purpose of sesame oil?
Sesame oil provides a deep, nutty aroma and flavor that is characteristic of many Asian-style dishes.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, by replacing the beef with more TVP or mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What type of beef is best?
Lean ground beef is specifically recommended to keep the dish light and reduce excess grease.
How do I prepare the garlic?
The garlic cloves should be finely minced to ensure even distribution of flavor throughout the filling.
Does this recipe work for meal prep?
Yes, the filling can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, though the lettuce should be kept fresh.
What if I don't have rice wine vinegar?
You can use standard rice vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute if necessary.
Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, the cooked meat and TVP mixture freezes well for up to 2 months.
What is the texture of the filling like?
The filling is a mix of tender meat, soft re-hydrated TVP, and crunchy bits of onion and water chestnut.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and easy recipe, making it suitable for busy weeknights.
Should the water chestnuts be cooked?
The water chestnuts are added to the pan to be heated through with the meat mixture, retaining their crunch.
How do I keep the lettuce crisp?
After rinsing and drying, you can wrap the lettuce in paper towels and keep it in the fridge until serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Finely diced carrots or mushrooms would be great additions to the meat mixture.