Chinese Lettuce Cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables
   Wash and separate the lettuce leaves, ensuring they remain intact to form cups. Pat them dry with paper towels. Chop all vegetables according to the ingredient list and set aside.
2. Cook the aromatics
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Brown the chicken
   Add the ground chicken to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink and starting to brown.
4. Add vegetables
   Stir in the diced red bell pepper and chopped water chestnuts. Cook for another 2 minutes until the peppers start to soften slightly.
5. Season the mixture
   Add the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine and coat all ingredients evenly. Cook for 1 minute to allow flavors to meld.
6. Finish the filling
   Stir in the sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
7. Assemble the lettuce cups
   Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each lettuce cup. Be careful not to overfill, as the cups should be easy to pick up and eat.
8. Garnish and serve
   Sprinkle the filled lettuce cups with the reserved green onions, chopped cilantro, and toasted nuts. Serve immediately while still warm, arranging them on a large platter for sharing.