Save These Potsticker Noodle Lettuce Cups are a fresh, low-carb twist on classic potstickers, bringing all the savory flavors of a traditional dumpling into a light and crisp butter lettuce leaf. Featuring seasoned ground turkey and tender rice noodles, this dish offers a satisfying handheld meal that is both healthy and flavorful.
Pin it Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this Asian-inspired recipe combines fresh shredded vegetables with a protein-rich filling for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 350 g ground turkey
- 150 g rice noodles (thin, cooked and drained; or use shirataki noodles for lower carbs)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., canola or sunflower)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 4 scallions, finely sliced (reserve some green tops for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (Napa or green)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce (optional, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar substitute
- 1 large head butter lettuce, leaves separated and washed
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2
- Add the garlic, ginger, and scallion whites. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the carrots and cabbage. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
- Step 4
- Push the mixture to the side and add the cooked noodles.
- Step 5
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili-garlic sauce, and honey. Pour over the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat and stir in half the scallion greens.
- Step 7
- To serve, spoon the turkey-noodle mixture into individual butter lettuce leaves. Garnish with sesame seeds, remaining scallion greens, and herbs if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure your cabbage and carrots are shredded finely so they cook quickly while retaining a slight crunch. Using a high-heat wok allows the aromatics to release their full flavor without burning.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute ground chicken, pork, or crumbled firm tofu for the turkey. For a gluten-free version, use tamari in place of soy sauce and ensure your rice noodles are certified gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these lettuce cups with an extra side of chili-garlic sauce for those who enjoy heat, and a fresh squeeze of lime to brighten the savory flavors of the turkey and noodles.
Pin it This recipe for Potsticker Noodle Lettuce Cups is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy vibrant flavors in a light, satisfying package that the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes these cups different from traditional potstickers?
Instead of dumpling wrappers, crisp butter lettuce leaves provide a refreshing, low-carb vessel. The filling incorporates rice noodles directly into the meat mixture, adding satisfying texture while keeping carbohydrates moderate compared to wheat-based dumplings.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Prepare the turkey-noodle filling up to 24 hours in advance and store refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving. Keep lettuce leaves separate and wash just before assembling to maintain crisp texture.
- → What's the best way to eat lettuce cups?
Spoon the warm filling into individual lettuce leaves just before eating. Fold slightly like a taco or cup in your hands. The combination of hot filling and cool, crisp lettuce creates an ideal temperature contrast.
- → How can I make these even lower in carbohydrates?
Substitute shirataki noodles for rice noodles to reduce carbohydrates significantly. Increase the ratio of turkey and vegetables to noodles. Omit the honey or use a zero-calorie sweetener in the sauce.
- → What protein alternatives work well?
Ground chicken or pork offer similar texture and cooking properties. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled firm tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking time to ensure proper browning and flavor absorption.