Experience the vibrant flavors of curry-scented grilled beef lettuce wraps. This dish combines juicy beef patties, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Photos of Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Some ingredients such as madras-style curry powder, oyster sauce, and fish sauce might not be commonly found in every home, but they are essential for achieving the authentic flavors in this recipe. You can find these in the international or Asian section of most supermarkets.
Ingredients For Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
unsalted roasted peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the beef patties.
green onions: Provides a mild onion flavor and freshness.
madras-style curry powder: A blend of spices that gives the beef a warm, aromatic flavor.
black pepper: Adds a sharp, pungent heat to the patties.
water: Used to mix with the other ingredients for the patties.
oyster sauce: Contributes a savory, umami depth to the beef mixture.
fish sauce: Adds a salty, umami-rich flavor to both the patties and the dipping sauce.
ground beef: The main protein for the patties, providing a rich and hearty base.
sugar: Balances out the tangy and salty flavors in the dipping sauce.
lime juice: Provides acidity and freshness to the dipping sauce.
warm water: Helps dissolve the sugar for the dipping sauce.
japanese rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess to the nuoc cham.
thai or serrano chiles: Adds heat and spice to the dipping sauce.
garlic clove: Infuses the dipping sauce with a pungent, aromatic flavor.
small carrot: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch to the nuoc cham.
dried round rice noodles: Provides a chewy, satisfying texture in the lettuce wraps.
soft-leaf lettuce: Acts as the wrap for the beef and herbs.
fresh mint: Adds a cool, refreshing flavor to the wraps.
fresh cilantro: Contributes a bright, citrusy taste to the dish.
One reader, Friedrich Tafoya says:
These curry-scented grilled beef lettuce wraps are a flavor explosion! The beef patties are perfectly seasoned, and the fresh herbs add a delightful freshness. The nuoc cham sauce ties everything together beautifully. A must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game!
Essential Techniques for Making Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
How to chop peanuts: Use a sharp knife to finely chop the unsalted roasted peanuts into small pieces. How to chop green onions: Trim the ends, then slice the green onions thinly, including both the white and green parts. How to mix ground beef: Combine the ground beef with other ingredients using your fingers to ensure even distribution. How to form patties: Shape the beef mixture into patties that are 2 inches wide and ½ inch thick. How to make nuoc cham: Combine sugar, lime juice, water, rice vinegar, and fish sauce, then adjust the taste as needed. How to cook rice noodles: Boil the noodles until tender-chewy, then drain and rinse with water. How to grill beef patties: Lightly oil a grill pan, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes, turning midway. How to build lettuce wraps: Assemble the wraps with lettuce, herbs, noodles, and beef, then cut the patties into bite-size pieces if needed.
How To Make Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
These satisfying beef lettuce wraps are packed with curried meat and tender rice noodles. They’re paired with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Beef Patties:
- ⅓cupunsalted roasted peanuts,or cashews, finely chopped, brimming
- 3medium green onions,white and green parts, finely chopped
- 1tbspMadras-style curry powder,preferably Sun brand
- ¾tsprecently ground black pepper
- 3tbspwater
- 1tbspoyster sauce,brimming
- 1tbspfish sauce
- 1½lbsground beef,(about 85 percent lean)
For Nuoc Cham:
- 2½tbspsugar,or 3 to 4 tbsp maple syrup
- 4tbspfresh lime juice
- ½cupwarm water,or as needed
- 2tspjapanese rice vinegar,unseasoned, optional
- 4tbspfish sauce
- 2orThai or serrano chiles,thinly sliced and seeds intact, or 2 to 3 tsp chile garlic sauce, or sambal oelek, optional
- 1largegarlic clove,minced, optional
- ½smallcarrot,cut into thin matchsticks or coarsely grated, optional
For Curried Beef Lettuce Wraps:
- 6ozsmall dried round rice noodles,(maifun) or 8 oz dried rice capellini or thin spaghetti
- leaves from 1 head of soft-leaf lettuce,such as butter, Boston, or red or green leaf
- 8bushy sprigs fresh mint,or basil
- 12sprigs fresh cilantro
Optional Add Ins:
- 2orThai or serrano chiles,thinly sliced and seeds intact, or 2 to 3 tsp chile garlic sauce or sambal oelek, optional
- 1largegarlic clove,minced
- ½smallcarrot,cut into thin matchsticks or coarsely grated
Instructions
-
Form the patties:
Patties:
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In a medium bowl, combine the chopped peanuts, green onions, curry powder, black pepper, water, oyster sauce, and fish sauce.
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Add the beef and mix with fingers. (If not cooking right away, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.) Form into 24 patties, each a good 2 inches wide and ½ inch thick. Set aside.
Nuoc Cham:
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In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the sugar (or 3 tablespoons of the maple syrup), 3 tablespoons of the lime juice, and the water.
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Taste the limeade and, if needed, add the remaining 1 ½ teaspoons sugar (or 1 tablespoon maple syrup) and/or 1 tablespoon lime juice.
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Dilute with water if needed. If there’s an unpleasant tart-bitter edge, add the vinegar to fix the flavor.
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Add the fish sauce to the bowl depending on the brand and taste. Aim for a bold, forward finish that’s a little gutsy. (Keep in mind that this sauce typically dresses dishes that include unsalted ingredients such as lettuce and herbs which will need an extra flavor lift.)
-
If desired, add the chiles, garlic, and/or carrot. The sauce can sit at room temperature for up to 8 hours until serving.
Noodles:
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Bring a large pot of unsalted water to a boil, add the noodles, and return to a boil. Cook until tender-chewy (package instructions are often not helpful, so test a strand—this can take anywhere between 2 and 8 minutes).
-
Drain, rinse with water, drain again, and let cool for 5 minutes.
-
Since the noodles are unwieldy, arrange them as 2-inch nests on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Set at the table with the dipping sauce, lettuce, and fresh herbs.
To Serve:
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Lightly oil a cast-iron stove-top grill pan (or lightly film a heavy skillet with oil) and set over medium-high heat.
-
In batches, add the beef and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning midway, until medium to medium-well done. (These are usually not eaten medium-rare, but cook for less time, if desired.) Transfer to a platter and let cool for a few minutes.
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Build lettuce wraps with herbs, noodles, and beef. For easier eating, break or cut each patty into a few bite-size pieces.
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Set the sauce at the table or portion it out in small bowls in advance of serving. Dunk in the sauce and eat.
Nutrition
- Calories: 733.34kcal
- Fat: 40.81g
- Saturated Fat: 13.82g
- Trans Fat: 2.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 18.27g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.04g
- Carbohydrates: 53.16g
- Fiber: 5.45g
- Sugar: 10.77g
- Protein: 37.96g
- Cholesterol: 120.77mg
- Sodium: 2105.89mg
- Calcium: 143.37mg
- Potassium: 918.14mg
- Iron: 7.88mg
- Vitamin A: 198.06µg
- Vitamin C: 16.14mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
When forming the beef patties, make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly but gently to avoid overworking the ground beef. Overmixing can result in tough patties. Additionally, when cooking the patties on a cast-iron stove-top grill pan or skillet, ensure the pan is preheated properly to achieve a good sear, which locks in the juices and enhances the flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
Prepare ingredients ahead: Chop peanuts, green onions, and herbs in advance. Mix the nuoc cham sauce the night before.
Use pre-ground spices: Opt for pre-ground madras-style curry powder to save time.
Batch cook patties: Form and cook all beef patties at once, then reheat as needed.
Quick noodle prep: Use quick-cooking rice noodles to reduce boiling time.
Simplify assembly: Arrange lettuce, herbs, and noodles on a platter for easy wrap assembly.
Substitute Ingredients For Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe
unsalted roasted peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews have a similar texture and mild flavor that complements the dish well.
green onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
madras-style curry powder - Substitute with garam masala: Garam masala offers a different but complementary blend of spices that can add depth to the dish.
recently ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used in the same quantity.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a bit more flavor than plain water.
oyster sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce provides a similar umami flavor with a touch of sweetness.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce offers a similar salty and umami flavor, though it lacks the fishy undertone.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option that can absorb the flavors of the spices well.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can be used in a slightly lesser quantity.
fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.
warm water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds a bit more flavor than plain water.
japanese rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used in the same quantity.
fish sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce that provides a similar umami flavor.
thai or serrano chiles - Substitute with jalapeño: Jalapeños offer a similar level of heat and can be used in the same quantity.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.
small carrot - Substitute with daikon radish: Daikon radish provides a similar crunch and mild sweetness.
small dried round rice noodles - Substitute with vermicelli noodles: Vermicelli noodles have a similar texture and can be used interchangeably.
soft-leaf lettuce - Substitute with butter lettuce: Butter lettuce has a similar soft texture and can hold the fillings well.
fresh mint - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a different but complementary herbal note.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can stand in for cilantro.
thai or serrano chiles - Substitute with fresno chiles: Fresno chiles offer a similar heat level and can be used in the same quantity.
garlic clove - Substitute with shallot: Shallots provide a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that can complement the dish.
small carrot - Substitute with jicama: Jicama offers a similar crunch and mild sweetness.
Presentation Ideas for Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
Serve smaller portion sizes: Create elegant, bite-sized portions of the curried beef patties to ensure a refined dining experience. Each lettuce wrap should be a perfect mouthful, showcasing the balance of flavors.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a delicate arrangement of fresh mint and cilantro sprigs. Add thin slices of Thai chiles and finely julienned carrot for a pop of color and visual appeal.
Plate with precision: Arrange the lettuce leaves in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate. Place the beef patties in the center, ensuring they are evenly spaced and aesthetically pleasing.
Highlight the sauce: Serve the nuoc cham in a small, elegant dipping bowl on the side. This allows diners to control the amount of sauce they use, enhancing the interactive dining experience.
Create noodle nests: Form the rice noodles into small, neat nests and place them strategically around the plate. This not only adds texture but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients are fresh and of the highest quality. This will elevate the flavors and presentation, making the dish worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Add a touch of luxury: Drizzle a small amount of premium oyster sauce or fish sauce over the beef patties just before serving. This adds an extra layer of umami and sophistication.
Balance the flavors: Make sure each lettuce wrap has a balanced combination of beef, noodles, and herbs. This ensures that every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Serve immediately: Present the dish as soon as it is assembled to maintain the freshness and vibrancy of the ingredients. This ensures that the lettuce remains crisp and the beef is at its optimal temperature.
Use elegant tableware: Serve the dish on high-quality, minimalist plates that allow the colors and textures of the food to stand out. This enhances the overall dining experience and presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
Medium bowl: Used to combine the ingredients for the beef patties, such as chopped peanuts, green onions, curry powder, black pepper, water, oyster sauce, and fish sauce.
Cast-iron stove-top grill pan: Ideal for grilling the beef patties, providing even heat distribution and creating a nice char.
Heavy skillet: An alternative to the grill pan, useful for cooking the beef patties if a grill pan is not available.
Small bowl: Used to prepare the nuoc cham dipping sauce by combining sugar, lime juice, water, vinegar, fish sauce, and optional ingredients like chiles, garlic, and carrot.
Large pot: Needed to boil water for cooking the dried round rice noodles until they are tender-chewy.
Strainer: Essential for draining the cooked noodles after boiling and rinsing them with water.
Plate: Used to arrange the cooked noodles into 2-inch nests for easier serving and eating.
Shallow bowl: An alternative to the plate for arranging the noodle nests.
Platter: Used to transfer and cool the cooked beef patties before serving.
Knife: Useful for chopping the green onions, peanuts, and optional ingredients like chiles, garlic, and carrot.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Tongs: Handy for turning the beef patties on the grill pan or skillet to ensure even cooking.
Measuring cups: Used to measure ingredients like peanuts, water, and lime juice accurately.
Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like curry powder, black pepper, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and vinegar.
Mixing spoon: Used to mix the ingredients for the beef patties and the nuoc cham sauce.
Serving bowls: Used to portion out the nuoc cham sauce for individual servings.
Lettuce leaves: Although not a tool, they are essential for wrapping the beef, noodles, and herbs for serving.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
- The beef patties can be formed up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to grill.
- Cooked beef patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
- To freeze cooked beef patties, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- The nuoc cham sauce can be made up to 8 hours in advance and kept at room temperature until serving. For longer storage, refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Cooked rice noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Rinse with cold water and drain well before using in the lettuce wraps.
- Lettuce leaves, mint, and cilantro should be washed, dried, and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap them in slightly damp paper towels and place them in sealed plastic bags to maintain freshness.
- Assemble the lettuce wraps just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Pre-assembled wraps can become soggy if stored for too long.
How to Reheat Leftover Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
To reheat leftover curry-scented grilled beef, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beef patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the patties while preventing them from drying out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the beef patties in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and cook the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is quicker than the oven and can help to restore some of the texture lost during refrigeration.
For the rice noodles, you can either reheat them in the microwave or by briefly soaking them in hot water. To microwave, place the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warm. To soak, place the noodles in a bowl and cover with hot water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and serve.
Refresh your lettuce leaves and herbs by soaking them in cold water for a few minutes, then gently patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This will help to crisp up the leaves and revive the flavors of the herbs.
Reheat the nuoc cham dipping sauce in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, or until warm. Alternatively, you can bring it to room temperature by letting it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Once all the components are reheated and refreshed, assemble the lettuce wraps as desired, filling them with the warm beef patties, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and any other toppings you like. Serve with the warm nuoc cham dipping sauce on the side for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Interesting Trivia About Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
This curry-scented grilled beef lettuce wraps recipe combines flavors from Vietnamese and Indian cuisines, creating a unique fusion dish. The nuoc cham sauce, a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, adds a tangy and spicy kick that complements the savory beef patties.
Budget-Friendly: Making Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps at Home
The curry-scented grilled beef lettuce wraps recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of ground beef and lettuce keeps costs reasonable, while specialty ingredients like oyster sauce and fish sauce add a bit to the expense. Fresh herbs and peanuts are affordable but can vary in price. Overall, the recipe scores a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD, considering the need for fresh and some specialty ingredients.
Is This Grilled Beef Lettuce Wrap Recipe Healthy?
The curry-scented grilled beef lettuce wraps recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients such as:
- Lettuce: A good source of vitamins and minerals
- Herbs (mint and cilantro): Provide fresh flavors and antioxidants
- Peanuts: Offer healthy fats and protein
However, there are some areas of concern:
- High sodium content from the fish sauce and oyster sauce
- Considerable amount of sugar in the nuoc cham sauce
- Red meat (ground beef) is high in saturated fat
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of fish sauce and oyster sauce, or replace them with lower-sodium alternatives
- Use a leaner cut of ground beef (90% lean or higher) or substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- Decrease the sugar content in the nuoc cham sauce by using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar used
- Incorporate more vegetables into the lettuce wraps, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Opt for whole grain rice noodles instead of regular rice noodles to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Serve the nuoc cham sauce on the side, allowing individuals to control the amount they consume
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still maintaining its delicious flavors and textures. The lettuce wraps can be a satisfying and health-conscious meal option when enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Editor's Opinion on Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe
This recipe masterfully combines the aromatic allure of curry with the fresh, vibrant elements of Vietnamese cuisine. The beef patties, enriched with peanuts and curry powder, promise a robust flavor profile, while the nuoc cham adds a zesty, tangy kick. The inclusion of fresh herbs and lettuce wraps ensures a refreshing balance, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. The process is straightforward yet sophisticated, perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight meal. Overall, it's a harmonious blend of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, showcasing a beautiful fusion of culinary traditions.
Enhance Your Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps
Why trust this Curry-Scented Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of madras-style curry powder and oyster sauce with the freshness of mint and cilantro. The nuoc cham dipping sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy. The use of unsalted roasted peanuts and fish sauce ensures an authentic taste. Each step is carefully crafted to bring out the best in every ingredient, making it a trustworthy and delicious choice for your next meal.
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