Name: Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce:; 1 tbsp sugar; 2 tbsp resh lime juice; ¼ cup warm water; 1 tsp unseasoned japanese rice vinegar; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 thai or serrano chile; 1 clove garlic; For Pancakes And Garniches:; 3 cups white sweet potato; 1 cup Carrot; ½ tsp rounded fine sea salt; 3 tbsp green onion; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 2 tsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp white or brown rice flour; 1 large egg; ⅓ cup canola; 1 leaves from head of soft leaf lettuce; 8 bushy sprigs mint; 12 sprigs cilantro

Delight your taste buds with crispy sweet potato pancake lettuce wraps. This unique blend of textures and flavors makes a perfect appetizer or light meal, combining the satisfying crunch of sweet potato pancakes with fresh herbs and a tangy nuoc cham dipping sauce.

Photos of Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Recipe

While most ingredients are common pantry staples, you may need to look out for fish sauce, which adds a savory depth, and white sweet potatoes, known for their milder flavor. The nuoc cham dipping sauce also uses Thai or serrano chiles for a bit of heat.

Ingredients For Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance other flavors.

Fresh lime juice: Provides a zesty tang to the sauce.

Warm water: Helps dissolve sugar and combines ingredients.

Unseasoned Japanese rice vinegar: Adds mild acidity.

Fish sauce: Offers savory umami flavor.

Thai or serrano chile: Adds spice and heat.

Garlic: Infuses a pungent aroma and taste.

White sweet potato: Main component of the pancakes, lending subtle sweetness.

Carrot: Adds color and slight sweetness.

Fine sea salt: Seasoning to enhance flavors.

Green onion: Adds freshness and mild onion flavor.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

Cornstarch: Helps bind the mixture together.

White or brown rice flour: Provides structure and crispiness.

Large egg: Binds ingredients together.

Canola oil: Used for frying the pancakes.

Soft leaf lettuce: Acts as a wrap for the pancakes.

Mint: Fresh herb for added flavor.

Cilantro: Fresh herb for added flavor.

One reader, Cletus Beverly says:

These crispy sweet potato pancake lettuce wraps are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The pancakes are perfectly crispy, and the fresh herbs and nuoc cham sauce add a refreshing zing. A fun and delicious dish that's perfect for gatherings!

Cletus Beverly

Techniques Required for Making Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

How to make nuoc cham dipping sauce: Combine sugar, lime juice, water, vinegar, fish sauce, chile, and garlic to create a balanced dipping sauce. How to grate vegetables: Use a grater to shred the sweet potato and carrot into fine pieces. How to massage vegetables: Use both hands to knead the grated sweet potato and carrot with salt until they become wet and squishy. How to expel moisture from vegetables: Wrap the grated vegetables in a muslin or non-terry dish towel and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove excess moisture. How to fry pancakes: Heat oil in a nonstick skillet, scoop and flatten the vegetable mixture into pancakes, and fry until crispy and brown on both sides. How to assemble lettuce wraps: Place a piece of pancake in a lettuce leaf, add herbs, and dip in the nuoc cham sauce before eating.

How To Make Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Sweet potatoes and carrots are fried into crisp golden cakes to complete these delicious lettuce wraps. Serve with a savory and tangy dipping sauce!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 12 minutes

Total: 22 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce:

1tbspsugar,plus 1 tsp
2tbspresh lime juice
¼cupwarm water,or as needed
1tspunseasoned japanese rice vinegar,optional
2tbspfish sauce
1Thai or serrano chile,thinly sliced, keep seeds intact or, 1 to 1½ tsp) chile garlic sauce or sambal oelek, optional, good for heat
1clovegarlic,minced, optional, good for pungency

For Pancakes And Garniches:

3cupswhite sweet potato,(12 oz), grated, buy a one pounder for easy prep
1cupcarrot,(3½ oz), grated, start from a 4 oz carrot
½tsprounded fine sea salt
3tbspgreen onion,finely chopped, lightly packed, green and white parts
¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
2tspfish sauce
1tbspcornstarch
3tbspwhite or brown rice flour,such as Bob’s Red Mill or all purpose flour
1large egg
⅓cupcanola,or other neutral oil
1leaves from head of soft leaf lettuce,such as butter, boston, or red leaf
8bushy sprigs mint,basil, or other soft leaf herbs
12sprigs cilantro

Instructions

Nuoc Cham:

Combine 1 tablespoon of the sugar, 1½ tablespoons of the lime juice, and the water.
Taste the limeade, and if needed, add the remaining 1 teaspoon sugar and/or 1½ teaspoons lime juice; dilute with water if needed. If there’s an unpleasant tart-bitter edge, add the vinegar to rounds things out.
Finally, add the fish sauce to create a bold, forward finish. If desired, add the chiles and/or garlic. Set aside. This should yield ½ cup of nuoc cham and this can be made and refrigerated up to 8 hours before serving.

Pancakes:

In a large bowl, combine the grated sweet potato, carrot, and salt. Massage with both hands for about 1 minute until wet and squishy.
Transfer the grated veggies to a piece of muslin or a non-terry dish towel, and wrap the veggies in the towel. Standing over the sink, firmly squeeze and twist to expel moisture.
Dump the veggies into a dry bowl.
Add the green onion, mixing with a fork to distribute well. Mix in the pepper, fish sauce, cornstarch, and rice flour. Add the egg, break it up with a fork, and mix well.
Press the mixture down to compact it, and then divide into 8 portions like a pie using a ¼ cup measuring scoop.
Warm a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, then add about 2 tablespoons of oil to film the bottom. Fry in two batches, 4 pancakes at a time.
For each one, use a fork and fingers to scoop up the ¼ cup portions of the potato-and-carrot mixture (one wedge of the “pie”). Deposit into the skillet, spreading and flattening the mixture with the measuring cup bottom and fork to make a 3½-inch-wide pancake.
Fry for about 3 minutes, until bits of the fringe-like edges are richly brown and crisp. Drizzle 2 to 3 teaspoons of oil on top of the pancakes, then wield 2 spatulas to carefully flip each one over. (The pancakes are delicate, so 2 spatulas are super handy.)
Fry for about 3 minutes longer, until crisp and brown underneath. Cool on a rack. Fry the remaining batch.

To Assemble:

Serve with lettuce, herbs, and sauce. Invite guests to build their own lettuce leaf wraps containing a piece of pancake (pass scissors or use forks/fingers to break up the pancakes into smaller pieces suitable for wrapping up) with 2 or 3 herb leaves and/or torn cilantro sprigs.
Dip in the sauce and eat. These are really best the day they are made.

Nutrition

Calories: 344.84kcal
Fat: 19.92g
Saturated Fat: 1.85g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.06g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.58g
Carbohydrates: 37.74g
Fiber: 6.21g
Sugar: 9.65g
Protein: 5.68g
Cholesterol: 46.50mg
Sodium: 1048.35mg
Calcium: 110.31mg
Potassium: 680.25mg
Iron: 4.12mg
Vitamin A: 1056.37µg
Vitamin C: 13.21mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

When making the nuoc cham dipping sauce, ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved in the lime juice and warm water before adding the fish sauce. This will create a smoother, more balanced flavor. Additionally, when frying the sweet potato pancakes, use two spatulas to flip them gently to maintain their shape and prevent breakage.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Prepare ingredients in advance: Grate the sweet potato and carrot the night before and store them in the fridge.

Use a food processor: Speed up the grating process by using a food processor instead of a hand grater.

Pre-make the sauce: Prepare the nuoc cham dipping sauce up to 8 hours ahead and refrigerate.

Batch frying: Fry the pancakes in two batches to save time and ensure even cooking.

Organize your workspace: Lay out all ingredients and tools before starting to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Recipe

sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can dissolve well in liquids, making it a good alternative.
fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
unseasoned japanese rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a mild acidity that can mimic the flavor of rice vinegar.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor, though it lacks the fishy undertone.
thai or serrano chile - Substitute with jalapeno: Jalapeno offers a similar heat level and can be easily found.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the dish.
white sweet potato - Substitute with orange sweet potato: Orange sweet potatoes have a similar texture and sweetness.
carrot - Substitute with parsnip: Parsnips offer a similar texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar purity and can be used in the same quantity.
green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness without the black specks.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder has similar thickening properties and is a good alternative.
white or brown rice flour - Substitute with tapioca flour: Tapioca flour provides a similar texture and is gluten-free.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) can act as a binder in the recipe.
canola - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute.
soft leaf lettuce - Substitute with butter lettuce: Butter lettuce has a similar texture and is soft enough for wraps.
mint - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a fresh, aromatic flavor that can complement the dish.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro.

Presenting Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the crispy sweet potato pancakes in bite-sized portions to ensure each piece is perfectly crisp and easy to handle.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with fresh mint and cilantro sprigs, arranging them artfully around the pancakes to add a pop of color and freshness.
Elegant dipping sauce presentation: Serve the nuoc cham dipping sauce in a small, elegant bowl or a porcelain spoon placed on the side of the plate for a refined touch.
Layered presentation: Stack the lettuce leaves neatly on one side of the plate, creating a visually appealing and organized look.
Contrast textures: Place the crispy pancakes on a bed of finely shredded carrot and green onion to add a contrasting texture and enhance the visual appeal.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the dish on a sleek, modern plate with clean lines to emphasize the sophistication of the dish.
Highlight the herbs: Place a few whole mint and cilantro sprigs strategically around the plate to highlight the fresh herbs used in the dish.
Add a touch of elegance: Drizzle a small amount of fish sauce artistically around the plate to add a touch of elegance and hint at the flavors within the dish.
Ensure balance: Arrange the components of the dish in a balanced manner, ensuring that each element is easily accessible and visually appealing.
Final touch: Finish with a light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper over the entire dish to add a subtle hint of spice and complete the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Large bowl: Used for mixing the grated sweet potato, carrot, and other ingredients for the pancake mixture.
Muslin or non-terry dish towel: Essential for squeezing out excess moisture from the grated vegetables.
Fork: Handy for mixing ingredients and distributing them evenly.
Measuring cup: Used to divide the pancake mixture into equal portions.
Nonstick skillet: Ideal for frying the pancakes to ensure they don't stick and cook evenly.
Spatulas: Two spatulas are recommended for flipping the delicate pancakes without breaking them.
Rack: Useful for cooling the pancakes after frying to maintain their crispiness.
Scissors: Optional but helpful for cutting the pancakes into smaller pieces for the wraps.
Garlic press: Convenient for mincing the garlic for the nuoc cham dipping sauce.
Knife: Necessary for slicing the chile for the dipping sauce.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
Small bowl: Used for mixing the nuoc cham dipping sauce.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring out the ingredients for both the pancakes and the dipping sauce.

How To Reheat Leftover Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

To reheat leftover crispy sweet potato pancake lettuce wraps, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pancakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they're heated through and crispy again. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the pancakes without making them soggy.
Another option is to reheat the pancakes in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the pancakes and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they're crispy and heated through. This method is quicker than the oven and allows you to control the crispiness more easily.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the pancakes in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, or until they're warm. However, keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture and less crispiness compared to the oven or stovetop methods.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, make sure to store the leftover pancakes separately from the lettuce, herbs, and nuoc cham dipping sauce. Assemble the wraps just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispiness of the components.
If the pancakes have become slightly soggy during storage, you can try crisping them up in a toaster oven before assembling the wraps. Simply place the pancakes in the toaster oven and toast for 1-2 minutes, or until they're crispy again.

Interesting Fact About Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

A random fact about this recipe is that nuoc cham is a traditional Vietnamese dipping sauce that combines sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, making it a perfect complement to the crispy sweet potato pancakes.

Is Making Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Cost-Effective?

This crispy sweet potato pancake lettuce wraps recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, and lettuce are affordable and readily available. The nuoc cham dipping sauce components such as fish sauce, lime juice, and garlic are also inexpensive. The overall verdict for this recipe is an 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet flavorful option for a meal.

Are Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Healthy?

This recipe for crispy sweet potato pancake lettuce wraps has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates nutrient-dense ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, and fresh herbs. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, while carrots provide beta-carotene and fiber. The lettuce wraps also make it a low-carb option. However, the recipe does have some less healthy components, such as the use of canola oil for frying and the inclusion of fish sauce, which can be high in sodium.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of frying the pancakes, try baking them in the oven or using an air fryer to reduce the amount of oil needed
Replace the canola oil with a healthier alternative like coconut oil or avocado oil
Reduce the amount of fish sauce used in the recipe to lower the sodium content, or opt for a low-sodium version
Incorporate additional vegetables into the pancake mixture, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density
Serve the lettuce wraps with a side of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates

Editor's Opinion on Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Recipe

This recipe for crispy sweet potato pancake lettuce wraps is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The sweet and savory pancakes, paired with the fresh herbs and crisp lettuce, create a refreshing and satisfying bite. The nuoc cham dipping sauce adds a tangy, umami-rich finish that elevates the dish. The process is a bit labor-intensive, but the result is well worth the effort. Perfect for a light lunch or an appetizer at a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and complex taste profile.

Enhance Your Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Complement the crispy sweet potato pancakes with succulent grilled shrimp skewers. The smoky, charred flavor of the shrimp will add a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory notes of the pancakes. A squeeze of lemon over the shrimp will enhance the freshness, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Brighten up your appetizer spread with a vibrant mango avocado salsa. The creamy avocado and juicy mango chunks, mixed with a hint of lime and cilantro, will provide a refreshing and zesty side that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the pancakes.

Spicy Cucumber Salad: Add a refreshing crunch with a spicy cucumber salad. Thinly sliced cucumbers, tossed with chili flakes, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil, will bring a cool and spicy balance to the warm, crispy pancakes. The salad's lightness will keep the meal from feeling too heavy.

Vietnamese Spring Rolls: Enhance the Asian-inspired theme with delicate Vietnamese spring rolls. Filled with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs, these rolls are perfect for dipping in the nuoc cham sauce. Their light and fresh profile will harmonize beautifully with the savory pancakes.

Coconut Sticky Rice: For a touch of sweetness, serve a side of coconut sticky rice. The creamy, slightly sweet coconut milk infused rice will provide a delightful contrast to the savory pancakes. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of texture and flavor.

Similar Recipes to Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Vietnamese Spring Rolls: These fresh and vibrant spring rolls are packed with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and a medley of vegetables. Serve with a tangy peanut dipping sauce for an irresistible appetizer.

Korean Kimchi Pancakes: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these savory pancakes are made with kimchi and scallions. Perfect for a quick snack or a side dish, they pair wonderfully with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce.

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Juicy chicken stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce, served in crisp lettuce leaves. Top with crushed peanuts and fresh herbs for a delightful crunch.

Japanese Okonomiyaki: A savory cabbage pancake that’s a staple of Japanese street food. Topped with bonito flakes, okonomiyaki sauce, and Japanese mayonnaise, this dish is a flavor explosion.

Mediterranean Falafel Wraps: Crispy falafel balls made from chickpeas and herbs, wrapped in pita bread with tahini sauce, cucumber, and tomato. A perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Transform your dinner with a delightful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Marinate the chicken in a blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to infuse it with vibrant flavors. Grill to perfection, achieving a juicy and tender texture. Serve alongside a medley of roasted vegetables and a light quinoa salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs will elevate your dining experience, making it a memorable feast.

Spicy Thai Basil Beef: Indulge in the bold and exotic flavors of Spicy Thai Basil Beef. Sauté thinly sliced beef with garlic, chili peppers, and onions until it's beautifully caramelized. Add a generous handful of fresh Thai basil and a splash of soy sauce to create a fragrant and savory dish. Serve over steamed jasmine rice and garnish with lime wedges and cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for those who crave a bit of heat and a lot of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a molten center of rich, gooey chocolate encased in a delicate cake shell. This dessert is a symphony of textures, with the outer layer providing a slight crispness that gives way to a velvety interior. Serve it warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries. The contrast between the hot cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful experience for the palate.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon curd filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. The crowning glory is a cloud of meringue, toasted to a perfect golden brown. The meringue adds a light, airy texture that complements the zesty lemon filling. Serve chilled, and for an extra touch, add a few candied lemon slices on top. The balance of sweet and tart flavors, combined with the crisp crust and fluffy meringue, makes this dessert a refreshing end to any meal.

Why trust this Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps Recipe:

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potato and carrot with the savory depth of fish sauce. The nuoc cham dipping sauce adds a zesty, tangy kick, making each bite a delightful experience. The use of fresh herbs like mint and cilantro enhances the flavor profile, while the lettuce wraps provide a refreshing crunch. The detailed instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve perfectly crispy pancakes. Trust this recipe for its balanced flavors and straightforward steps, promising a delicious and satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts on the Crispy Sweet Potato Pancake Lettuce Wraps recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the sweet potato pancakes are crispy?

To get crispy sweet potato pancakes, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated sweet potato and carrot. Also, don't overcrowd the skillet when frying; give each pancake enough space to crisp up properly.

Can I make the nuoc cham dipping sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the nuoc cham dipping sauce up to 8 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

What can I use as a substitute for fish sauce?

If you need a substitute for fish sauce, you can use soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor. Keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

How do I keep the pancakes warm if I'm making them in batches?

To keep the pancakes warm while you finish frying the rest, place them on a wire rack in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C). This will keep them crispy without making them soggy.

Can I use a different type of lettuce for the wraps?

Absolutely! You can use any soft leaf lettuce you prefer, such as butter lettuce or even romaine. Just make sure the leaves are large enough to wrap around the pancakes and herbs.