Ingredients

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons dry sherry
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon hot red pepper , crushed
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 lb ground chicken ( or Boca Ground Beef Crumbles )
1 scallion , chopped
1/3 cup roasted peanuts ( optional )
12 iceberg lettuce leaves ( wash in ice water to keep crunchy )
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1 garlic clove , minced
1 small red bell pepper , seeded and minced
1 stalk celery , chopped
1 jalapeno pepper , seeded and minced
Crunchy Chinese Chicken in Lettuce Cups is a popular Chinese dish that has gained international recognition. It's a classic appetizer, snack, or main dish that features a flavorful combination of spiced minced chicken and crunchy fresh lettuce leaves. This dish has a unique taste profile, blending the subtle sweetness of soy sauce, the umami flavor of peanuts, and the tangy notes of rice vinegar. It's often served as a finger food or a light meal that is perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. Whether you are on a low-carb diet or just looking for a healthy and tasty meal option, this dish ticks all the boxes.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, dry sherry, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, salt, hot red pepper, and cornstarch.
2.In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken or Boca Ground Beef Crumbles with scallion and peanuts (optional). Add the soy sauce mixture and toss to coat.
3.Wash the iceberg lettuce leaves in ice water to keep them crunchy. Set aside.
4.In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced ginger and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds.
5.Add the red bell peppers, celery, and jalapeño pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6.Add the chicken mixture. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, for about 8 - 10 minutes.
7.Spoon the chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves. Serve and enjoy!

PROS

Crunchy Chinese Chicken in Lettuce Cups is a low-carb and gluten-free meal.
It’s a perfect appetizer or main dish featuring a savory blend of ginger, garlic, and spices.
Crunchy lettuce leaves give you a fresh and healthy alternative to the typical flour tortilla or bread bun.
This dish is exotic, easy to make, and fun to eat.

CONS

This dish is savory, with a little spice, so it may not suit everyone’s taste.
Also, the prep time may be a bit longer if you are unfamiliar with some of the ingredients.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is high in protein, low in carbs, and a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while lettuce contains nutrients such as vitamin A and K. Ginger and garlic have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may support our immune system, heart health, and cognitive function.

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