In our relentless pursuit of enticing and healthful culinary inspirations, we unveil this gem: Shrimp Lettuce Wraps! A symphony of zingy flavors and crisp veggies harmonizes within, while the luscious peanut sauce adds the final flourish. Should the notion of savoring these delights enveloped in lettuce leaves give you pause, rest assured, the burst of flavors will leave you entirely satiated. Our household saw them vanish in moments, and we ardently wish the same for yours! (For a vegan alternative, do try these Tofu Lettuce Wraps!)
The Ingredients that Adorn Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
These shrimp lettuce wraps present a delightful way to relish succulent shellfish, serving as a gluten-free dinner or appetizer. Lettuce wraps trace their origins to China and have since journeyed throughout Southeast Asia, gaining particular prominence in Laos and Thailand. In recent decades, they have found favor in America, especially with the rise of gluten-free and keto diets. While our recipe may not claim authenticity, it beautifully interprets the concept through an American lens. Here's what you'll require for this culinary venture:
Shrimp, deveined and either with tails on or peeled
Hoisin sauce
Soy sauce or tamari
Rice vinegar
Cornstarch
Olive oil
Garlic
Ginger
Green onions
Butter lettuce
Carrots
Bell pepper
Cilantro
Guidance on Selecting the Finest Shrimp
The market offers an array of options when it comes to procuring shrimp. Here's our preferred approach for shrimp lettuce wraps:
Medium-sized shrimp: We find medium shrimp to be an ideal choice for this dish, though smaller shrimp would also suit the lettuce wraps splendidly. Medium shrimp is typically labeled as 41 to 50 count (indicating the number of shrimp per pound).
Embrace wild-caught: Opting for locally caught, wild shrimp often aligns with sustainability values. Additionally, well-regulated farms can provide high-quality options; consult the Seafood Watch Consumer Guide for guidance.
Peel (or not to peel): While tail-on shrimp may dazzle visually, it can pose a challenge for shrimp lettuce wraps. Though we showcase tails in our photos, we recommend serving with fully peeled shrimp for ease of consumption.
Fresh or frozen: Freshness is crucial, but don't dismiss frozen shrimp, which can retain quality if promptly frozen after harvest. Be sure to thaw the shrimp before commencing the recipe.
Best Lettuce Companions for Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
When it comes to lettuce, butter lettuce, also known as Bibb lettuce, reigns supreme for shrimp lettuce wraps. Its delicate flavor, compact size, and rounded shape make it the epitome of wrapping perfection.
Butter lettuce, a variety of green lettuce, boasts a soft, tender texture reminiscent of the creaminess of butter, along with a mild, sweet flavor. This category encompasses both Boston and Bibb lettuce. Often, it is available as a small head with the roots intact to preserve its freshness or as separate leaves.
Are alternatives viable? Romaine hearts might serve as an alternative, although their shape is less conducive to wrapping, and their flavor is somewhat bolder. Green cabbage could also be considered, but be mindful of its tougher texture and stronger taste.
The true star of this shrimp lettuce wraps recipe undoubtedly lies in the sauce (in our humble opinion!). This peanut sauce transcends ordinary expectations by artfully balancing savory, sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements all at once. It elevates the lettuce wraps to a realm of irresistible indulgence.
While the sauce is well-suited for dipping, we've found that dipping the wraps can lead to structural challenges, causing them to fall apart. Therefore, our preferred method involves drizzling the tantalizing sauce over each wrap!
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
While you may choose to indulge in these shrimp lettuce wraps as an appetizing prelude, be aware that their preparation might demand more time and effort. As such, we find them most gratifying when savored as a main course! To complete the meal and ensure a truly satisfying dining experience, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are a few inspired ideas to accompany the lettuce wraps:
Rice
Coconut Rice
Quinoa
Mango Salad with Lime
Greens with Carrot Ginger Dressing
Spicy Edamame
Let your culinary adventures take flight with these shrimp lettuce wraps, a feast that tantalizes the senses and delights the palate!
