Gochujang Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

• •1 lb Ground turkey, lean
• •1 tbsp Olive oil
• •1 finely diced Yellow onion, small
• •3 minced Garlic cloves
• •1 tbsp Fresh ginger, grated
• •3 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• •2 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce
• •1 tbsp Rice vinegar
• •1 tsp Toasted sesame oil
• •1 tbsp Honey (or maple syrup/brown sugar)
• •2 tbsp Water or low-sodium chicken broth
• •1 cup (optional) Water chestnuts, canned, drained and chopped
• •1 large head, leaves separated and washed Butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce
• •2 thinly sliced (for garnish) Green onions
• •1 tsp (for garnish) Toasted sesame seeds
• • for serving (optional) Lime wedges

Instructions

1. 1

   **Prepare Sauce & Veggies**: In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, and water/broth until smooth. Set aside. Finely dice the onion, mince garlic, grate ginger, and chop water chestnuts (if using). Separate and wash lettuce leaves, pat dry, and arrange on a platter.

2. 2

   **Cook Turkey**: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

3. 3

   **Sauté Aromatics**: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the turkey and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   **Combine with Sauce**: Pour the prepared gochujang sauce over the turkey mixture. Add the chopped water chestnuts (if using). Stir well to coat everything evenly. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.

5. 5

   **Taste and Adjust**: Taste the turkey mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more gochujang for extra spice, honey for sweetness, or soy sauce for saltiness.

6. 6

   **Serve**: Transfer the gochujang turkey mixture to a serving bowl. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with fresh lettuce leaves and optional lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to build their own wraps.

Chef's Tips

• 💡**Spice Level**: Gochujang varies in heat. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more to taste if you prefer a spicier kick.
• 💡**Crisp Lettuce**: Ensure your lettuce leaves are well-chilled and completely dry for the best crisp texture. This prevents wilting and provides a satisfying crunch.
• 💡**Make Ahead**: The turkey filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• 💡**Add Crunch**: For extra texture, consider adding finely diced bell peppers (red or yellow) along with the onion, or a handful of chopped peanuts when serving.
• 💡**Serving Suggestions**: Offer additional toppings like shredded carrots, cucumber sticks, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to cool the spice.