Name: Zesty Beef Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional); 1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, separated into leaves; 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional, for garnish); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Zesty Beef Lettuce Wraps are a light yet flavorful dish that combines savory ground beef with a tangy, spicy sauce, all wrapped up in crisp, refreshing lettuce leaves. Perfect for a healthy dinner, appetizer, or even a low-carb option, these wraps are packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, offering a delicious and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Zesty Beef Lettuce Wraps are packed with a combination of flavors from the ground beef, fresh veggies, and a zesty sauce. They’re quick to prepare, healthy, and can be customized to your liking. You’ll love how the freshness of the lettuce contrasts with the savory beef filling, making each bite full of texture and flavor.

Zesty Beef Lettuce Wraps

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

1 pound (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional for heat)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil for cooking)

For the Wraps:

1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce, leaves separated and washed
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

For Garnish (optional):

Lime wedges
Sriracha or extra chili garlic sauce

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

Directions

Prepare the beef filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Season the beef:
Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce (if using), and black pepper. Mix well to combine, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
Assemble the wraps:
To serve, spoon the beef mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf. Top with shredded carrots, green onions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
Serve:
Serve the lettuce wraps with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus, and drizzle with additional sriracha or chili garlic sauce if you like more heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh for a plant-based filling.
Spicy Version: Add more chili garlic sauce or finely chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Add Veggies: Include chopped bell peppers, water chestnuts, or peas to the beef filling for added texture.
Different Sauces: Swap hoisin sauce for oyster sauce or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
Lighter Option: Use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover beef filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The beef mixture can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. However, it’s best to serve the wraps fresh, as the lettuce can wilt when stored.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, you can use iceberg lettuce, Romaine, or any other lettuce with large, sturdy leaves for wrapping.

Can I make the beef filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving with fresh lettuce leaves.

How can I make these wraps spicier?

Increase the chili garlic sauce, add fresh sliced chilies, or use sriracha for an extra spicy kick.

Can I add cheese to the wraps?

Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheese on top, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a creamy twist.

Conclusion

Zesty Beef Lettuce Wraps are the perfect blend of savory, spicy, and fresh. The ground beef filling, combined with a tangy sauce, makes a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner, an appetizer, or a fun meal to share, these wraps are sure to please!