Savory turkey filling in crisp lettuce cups
Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4
12 wraps
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Savory turkey filling in crisp lettuce cups
★4.7(15)
Seasoned ground turkey with water chestnuts and a sweet-savory sauce, scooped into crisp lettuce cups. A light, addictive appetizer or dinner.
10m
Prep Time
10m
Cook Time
20m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
These lettuce wraps are inspired by the restaurant favorite but made with lean ground turkey. The combination of savory, sweet, and crunchy textures is irresistible.
Asian cuisine encompasses an incredible diversity of techniques and flavors. This recipe draws on time-tested methods to create something truly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 can (8 oz) water chestnuts, diced
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- 1
Brown ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small crumbles.
- 2
Add water chestnuts, hoisin sauce, and soy sauce. Stir and cook 3 minutes until sauce coats the meat.
- 3
Add a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil. Toss to combine.
- 4
Spoon turkey mixture into butter lettuce cups.
- 5
Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and sriracha if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve over steamed jasmine or sticky rice
Pair with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi
Add a drizzle of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor
Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering
Substitutions
Hoisin sauceCoconut aminos + 1 tsp maple syrup
Soy-free alternative
Water chestnutsDiced jicama
Same crunch, fresher flavor
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Butter lettuce makes the best cups—flexible but sturdy enough to hold filling.
Add diced mushrooms for extra umami and texture.
Serve with a side of steamed rice to make it a full meal.
Storage
Store filling separately from lettuce. Refrigerate filling for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating over medium-low heat is also effective.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (80mg) · 4 servings
Calories260
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein28g
Carbohydrates12g
Fat10g
Fiber580mg
Sugar1g
Sodium4g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use iceberg lettuce?
- Yes, it is crunchier but the cups are less flexible.
- Are these keto-friendly?
- Yes, skip the hoisin sauce or use a sugar-free version to lower carbs.
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About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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