Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most addictive Korean Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Seoul! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a mouthwatering dish that's not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. These lettuce wraps are the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will have your family and friends begging for seconds – and trust us, they'll be asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 head of butter lettuce
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing the butter lettuce, separating the leaves, and patting them dry. Mince the garlic and ginger, and chop the green onions.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the ground beef for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it's completely browned and no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary, leaving a small amount for flavor.
- Add minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the beef. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and coat the beef.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
- Arrange the butter lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
- Spoon the warm beef mixture into each lettuce leaf.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to wrap and eat the lettuce wraps as they prefer.
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp butter lettuce leaves for the best wrap experience. Look for leaves that are large and sturdy enough to hold the beef mixture.
- For maximum flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger instead of pre-minced versions. The difference in taste is remarkable!
- Don't skip draining excess fat from the beef – this helps prevent soggy lettuce wraps and concentrates the delicious flavors.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level. Start with less if you're sensitive to heat, and add more for those who love a kick.
- Prep all ingredients before cooking to ensure a smooth and quick cooking process. This Korean-inspired dish comes together fast!
- For a low-carb or gluten-free option, use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.
- Serve immediately after preparing to enjoy the perfect temperature and texture of the beef and crisp lettuce leaves.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 269kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
