Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps

Whenever I think of the perfect light meal, I can’t help but be drawn to Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps. This dish has a special place in my heart, and it often graces our dinner table, especially during the warmer months. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it not only beautiful but also satisfying. As I prepare these wraps, I’m reminded of the family gatherings where we would all sit together, laughing and sharing stories, each of us crafting our own unique lettuce wraps. The crispness of the lettuce paired with the savory filling creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.

What Goes Into Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps

The ingredients for Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps are carefully chosen to create a unique blend of flavors and textures. The heart of this dish is the lentils, which provide not only protein but also a satisfying earthiness. The colorful vegetables offer crunch and sweetness, while the flavorful sauces work together to coat the filling with irresistible taste. Combining these ingredients gives you a delicious balance that’s nutritious and delightful.

• 1 cup red lentils, picked over and rinsed
• 1 ½ Tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (1 small)
• ¾ cup finely chopped yellow onion (1 small)
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves)
• 1 Tbsp peeled and minced fresh ginger
• ¼ cup hoisin sauce, or more to taste
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce, or to taste
• 1 ½ Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• 1 – 2 heads iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce, leaves separated, rinsed and dried

Putting Together Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps

Making Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps is a straightforward process that’s both fun and rewarding. You’ll love how the layers of flavors come together as you prepare each step. Let’s dive into the instructions, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!

1. Start by simmering the red lentils in unsalted water according to package directions. This should take about 15 minutes until they’re tender. Drain the lentils and set them aside. Keep an eye on the texture; they should be soft but not mushy.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the chopped red bell pepper and finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté this mixture until softened, which should take around 5 to 6 minutes. You’ll notice the onions becoming translucent and the peppers softening.
3. Next, stir in the matchstick carrots, minced garlic, and peeled and minced fresh ginger into the skillet. Sauté everything for one more minute, allowing the garlic and ginger to release their aromatic flavors. You’ll want to smell that fragrant blend filling the kitchen.
4. Add the drained lentils to the skillet along with the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water chestnuts. Toss everything together while heating for about one minute, ensuring the lentils are evenly coated. If the mixture appears too thick, you can thin it with a few tablespoons of water. It’s important that the lentils absorb some of the sauces as they rest.
5. Once combined, fold in the chopped walnuts, and sprinkle with green onions, cilantro, and optional sesame seeds. This adds great texture and flavor to your filling. Make sure everything is well mixed and heated through.
6. Now it’s time to serve! Take the filling and spoon it into the fresh leaves of iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce. I personally like to double up on the lettuce leaves for extra crunch and sturdiness. Enjoy your wraps warm, and feel free to customize with extra toppings if you’d like!

Tips and Tricks about Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps

When it comes to mastering Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps, a few tips can make all the difference. Let’s dive into some helpful suggestions to enhance your preparation and enjoyment of this dish.

• Storage: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s great for quick lunches.
• Freezing: If you wish to freeze the filling, ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to two months.
• Pairing: These wraps pair beautifully with a side of steamed edamame or a light Asian salad for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the filling ahead of time and simply assemble the wraps when you’re ready to eat. It’s a time-saver!
• Garnish: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh herbs and sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and flavor.

Great Combinations for Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps

When serving your Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps, think about how to elevate the meal. Here are some combinations that go wonderfully with it:

• Steamed Rice: Serve alongside a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a satisfying carb addition.
• Fresh Salads: A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing complements the wraps perfectly.
• Appetizers: Consider starting the meal with some spring rolls or dumplings as a delightful appetizer.
• Occasions: These wraps are perfect for casual dinners, gatherings, or even lunches during busy weeks.
• Seasonal Pairings: In warmer months, consider serving with fresh fruits like watermelon or cantaloupe for a refreshing contrast.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps bring together health, flavor, and fun, making them a truly special dish. They’re versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and delightful they are to make and eat.

Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps

Craving something light yet satisfying? Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps deliver with their flavorful filling and fresh lettuce. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, these wraps are an easy weeknight dinner idea. Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, why not make them tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 5 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Peeler
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1.5 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper 1 small
• 0.75 cup finely chopped yellow onion 1 small
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic 3 cloves
• 1 Tbsp peeled and minced fresh ginger
• 0.25 cup hoisin sauce or more to taste
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce or to taste
• 1.5 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 can water chestnuts 8 oz, drained and chopped
• 0.5 cup chopped walnuts
• 0.25 cup chopped green onions
• 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 heads iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce, leaves separated, rinsed and dried

Instructions

 

• Start by simmering the red lentils in unsalted water according to package directions. This should take about 15 minutes until they’re tender. Drain the lentils and set them aside. Keep an eye on the texture; they should be soft but not mushy.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the chopped red bell pepper and finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté this mixture until softened, which should take around 5 to 6 minutes. You’ll notice the onions becoming translucent and the peppers softening.
• Next, stir in the matchstick carrots, minced garlic, and peeled and minced fresh ginger into the skillet. Sauté everything for one more minute, allowing the garlic and ginger to release their aromatic flavors. You’ll want to smell that fragrant blend filling the kitchen.
• Add the drained lentils to the skillet along with the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water chestnuts. Toss everything together while heating for about one minute, ensuring the lentils are evenly coated. If the mixture appears too thick, you can thin it with a few tablespoons of water. It’s important that the lentils absorb some of the sauces as they rest.
• Once combined, fold in the chopped walnuts, and sprinkle with green onions, cilantro, and optional sesame seeds. This adds great texture and flavor to your filling. Make sure everything is well mixed and heated through.
• Now it's time to serve! Take the filling and spoon it into the fresh leaves of iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce. I personally like to double up on the lettuce leaves for extra crunch and sturdiness. Enjoy your wraps warm, and feel free to customize with extra toppings if you’d like!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s great for quick lunches.
• Freezing: If you wish to freeze the filling, ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to two months.
• Pairing: These wraps pair beautifully with a side of steamed edamame or a light Asian salad for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the filling ahead of time and simply assemble the wraps when you're ready to eat. It’s a time-saver!
• Garnish: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh herbs and sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and flavor.

Keyword Asian Inspired Recipes, Healthy Lettuce Wraps, Lentil Wraps, Vegetarian Lettuce Wraps

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!