Asian Ground Turkey and Pine Nut Lettuce Wraps are a flavorful, nutritious, and fun dish that brings the bright, aromatic tastes of Asian cuisine together in a light and easy-to-make format. Inspired by classic dishes like Chinese chicken lettuce wraps (also known as “san choy bau”), this recipe uses lean ground turkey as the protein base, making it a healthier alternative while still delivering deep, satisfying flavors. The addition of pine nuts brings a subtle crunch and nutty essence, setting this dish apart with a slightly Mediterranean twist that marries beautifully with traditional Asian ingredients like soy sauce and hoisin.
One of the appealing things about this recipe is its versatility—it works equally well as an appetizer, main dish, or even a party favorite, where guests can assemble their own wraps. Its interactive, hands-on nature makes it engaging for families and entertaining for guests. The wrap portion itself is crafted from fresh iceberg lettuce leaves, which serve not only as a low-carb alternative to bread or tortillas but also add crisp texture and a refreshing counterbalance to the warm, spiced filling.
Lettuce wraps are a common element in several Asian cuisines, from Korean ssam to Thai larb-inspired wraps. Their popularity has grown in the West, particularly in health-conscious circles, as they offer a lower-calorie, gluten-free, and nutrient-rich alternative to more traditional wraps. Iceberg lettuce is used in this particular recipe due to its availability and its wide, sturdy leaves, which make it easy to scoop and hold the flavorful filling. It also has a mild taste that doesn’t overshadow the bold flavors of hoisin, soy, onions, and peppers.
Ground turkey, as the main protein, offers a lean, low-fat meat that easily absorbs the marinade and sauce, becoming juicy and flavorful during cooking. It’s a great substitute for ground pork or beef and appeals to those looking for a lighter protein option. The meat is sautéed with aromatics like onions and red bell pepper, creating a slightly sweet-and-savory base. The sauce—made with soy sauce, hoisin, sherry, cornstarch, and vinegar—adds complexity and silkiness while binding the filling together.
The pine nuts, although not traditionally Asian, lend a soft, buttery crunch that enriches the dish with a slight contrast in texture and flavor. Lightly toasted, they support the savory-sweet profile of the filling without overpowering it.
Asian Ground Turkey and Pine Nut Lettuce Wraps are also ideal for meal prepping. The filling can be made in advance and reheated, making weekday lunches or dinners fast and fuss-free. With no complex techniques and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels. It’s a testament to the global nature of modern home cooking, combining elements from different cuisines to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or simply exploring new ways to bring healthy flavors to the table, these lettuce wraps offer a fresh and satisfying experience that combines nutrition, flavor, and fun.
Asian Ground Turkey and Pine Nut Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
1 tablespoon Canola oil
1 medium red pepper (red capsicum) - or yellow bell pepper, cut in ½ inch diced
1 medium white onion - cut in ½ inch diced
1 pound ground turkey (minced turkey)
¼ cup pine nuts
1 head iceberg lettuce - remove the core and separate leaves
1 tablespoon cornstarch- 1 tablespoon sherry
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ cup Hoisin sauce- 1 tablespoon light vinegar - such as rice or white wine
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and peppers to the pan, and cook, while stirring for 3 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey. Cook for another 10 minutes while stirring and breaking up the meat.
- For the Sauce. Dissolve cornstarch into sherry, and add soy sauce, barbecue sauce and light vinegar. Stir the sauce, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the pine nuts, and remove from the heat.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with the lettuce leaves at the table for wrapping. Serve and enjoy!
