Easy Chinese Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

These Chinese lettuce wraps with peanut sauce are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal. Packed with flavorful ground meat, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy peanut sauce, they make a perfect light lunch or dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy and fresh: A great low-carb alternative to traditional wraps.
• Customizable: Use chicken, turkey, or tofu to suit your preferences.
• Packed with flavor: The peanut sauce adds a savory, slightly sweet depth to every bite.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make the filling in advance for easy meals throughout the week.

this Recipe

Ingredients

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

For the Wraps:

• Ground chicken, turkey, or tofu
• Sesame oil
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Soy sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Water chestnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)
• Green onions, sliced
• Lettuce leaves (butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• Peanut butter
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Garlic, minced
• Warm water (to thin as needed)

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and warm water until smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the filling: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, then stir-fry until fragrant. Add ground chicken (or tofu) and cook until browned.
3. Season: Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and chopped water chestnuts. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Assemble wraps: Spoon the filling into lettuce leaves and drizzle with peanut sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the peanut sauce.
• Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower butter for peanut butter.
• Extra Crunch: Add shredded carrots or crushed peanuts on top.
• Vegan Option: Use tofu instead of meat and maple syrup instead of honey.
• Thai-Inspired: Use lime juice and fresh cilantro for a Thai twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the filling in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked filling for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Try ground beef, pork, shrimp, or even lentils for a plant-based option.

What lettuce works best for wraps?

Butter lettuce, romaine, or iceberg lettuce all work well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the filling in advance and store it separately from the lettuce for best freshness.

How do I keep lettuce wraps from falling apart?

Use sturdy lettuce leaves and avoid overfilling them.

Is the peanut sauce necessary?

No, but it adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Stir well before using.

What side dishes pair well with these wraps?

Try serving with steamed rice, cucumber salad, or stir-fried vegetables.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the sauce?

Yes, it will add a bit of texture to the sauce.

Can I serve these warm or cold?

Both! The filling is delicious either way.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

Conclusion

These easy Chinese lettuce wraps with peanut sauce are a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal option. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today for a light yet delicious dish!

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