Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The tender ground beef is complemented by the sweetness of carrots, the crunch of bell peppers, and the aromatic notes of garlic and ginger. The sesame-ginger sauce ties everything together, creating a mouthwatering experience. Additionally, it's versatile—easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, including gluten-free, paleo, and low-carb options.

Ingredients

Lettuce Wrap Sauce

• ¼ cup maple syrup, brown sugar, or coconut sugar

• ¼ cup coconut aminos, tamari, or soy sauce

• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

• ¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch

Ground Beef Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger

• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced

• ½ cup shredded carrots

• 4 whole green onions, sliced into 1” pieces

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Ground pepper, to taste

• Sesame seeds, for garnish

• Boston Bibb lettuce (or romaine or iceberg lettuce)

• Steamed white rice or sautéed cauliflower rice (optional, for serving)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a measuring cup, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the arrowroot powder and whisk until well combined. Set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Combine with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Finish and Serve: Stir in the sliced green onions. Spoon the mixture into lettuce cups and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve with steamed white rice or sautéed cauliflower rice if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or bison for a different flavor profile.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance the dish with additional vegetables like shredded cabbage, zucchini, or mushrooms.

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the filling.

• Dietary Adjustments: For a low-carb version, serve with cauliflower rice instead of white rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the beef filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

• Freezing: The beef mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to ensure the dish is gluten-free.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What lettuce is best for wraps?

Boston Bibb lettuce is ideal due to its tender leaves, but romaine or iceberg lettuce can also be used.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lean alternative and works well in this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for a paleo diet?

Yes, by using coconut aminos and serving with cauliflower rice, this dish fits within a paleo diet.

How can I add more vegetables?

Incorporate shredded cabbage, zucchini, or mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition and texture.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha sauce to the filling to boost the spice level.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the beef filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the beef filling?

Yes, the filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with these wraps?

Serve with steamed white rice, sautéed cauliflower rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful and versatile dish that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. With their combination of savory beef, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sauce, they make for a satisfying meal that's both healthy and delicious. Whether you're looking for a light dinner or an impressive appetizer, this recipe is sure to please.

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