| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 8g | 1g | 24g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 5g | 3g | 1.5g |
Why I Love American Jackfruit “Chicken” Lettuce Wraps with Sesame Sauce
When I first stumbled upon this recipe for Jackfruit “Chicken” Lettuce Wraps with Sesame Sauce, I was immediately intrigued. The idea of transforming the texture of jackfruit into something that resembles tender, juicy chicken was exciting. Plus, the vibrant and fresh ingredients involved in this dish make it a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home with your loved ones.
A Perfect Blend of Flavors and Textures
What sets this recipe apart is its intricate balance of flavors and textures. The jackfruit, once cooked with a medley of aromatics and sauces, takes on a savory, slightly sweet flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the crisp freshness of the lettuce leaves. Each bite is a delightful combination of crunchy and tender, punctuated by the zing of fresh ginger and the smooth, nutty hints of sesame oil.
The sesame sauce is a star in itself, adding a delicious layer of depth and richness. Inspired by some of the versatile dishes I’ve come across, like the famous lettuce wraps served at restaurants such as P.F. Chang’s, this sauce truly ties the entire dish together. A tip of the hat goes to Chef Chloe Coscarelli, whose innovative plant-based creations often serve as a source of inspiration, pushing me to experiment with bold and unique ingredient combinations.
A Versatile Crowd-Pleaser
Another reason I love this recipe is its versatility. While these Jackfruit “Chicken” Lettuce Wraps can easily stand alone as a main course, they also work beautifully as an appetizer or side dish, pairing well with other favorites like a hearty bowl of miso soup or a zesty Asian slaw. The wraps are light yet filling, making them an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling overly heavy.
Moreover, the recipe caters to various dietary preferences, making it a hit at gatherings where guests may have different needs. This dish is naturally gluten-free (just ensure your soy sauce is certified gluten-free) and vegan, but it’s so flavorful that even the most ardent meat-lovers are bound to be impressed.
If you’re new to cooking with jackfruit, this is a fantastic introductory recipe. It’s simple enough for novice chefs but offers enough complexity in flavor to keep seasoned cooks engaged. And if you’re like me, constantly looking for ways to bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen, this dish is a great canvas to experiment with, whether you’re adding a bit more sriracha for heat or garnishing with extra fresh herbs for an added burst of color and taste.
So next time you’re in need of a dish that’s both unique and universally appealing, give these Jackfruit “Chicken” Lettuce Wraps with Sesame Sauce a try. Whether enjoyed in front of a roaring fire after a day exploring the mountains, or shared with friends on a sunny afternoon, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup water
- 12 large lettuce leaves (such as Bibb or Romaine)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
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Method
Step One
Drain and rinse the young green jackfruit. Use your hands or a fork to shred the jackfruit into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step Two
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic and minced fresh ginger to the skillet, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
Step Four
Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion, garlic, and ginger mixture.
Step Five
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and water. Pour this sauce over the jackfruit mixture in the skillet and stir well to combine.
Step Six
Let the jackfruit and sauce mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Step Seven
Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Prepare the lettuce leaves by washing and drying them thoroughly. Lay the lettuce leaves out on a serving platter.
Step Eight
Spoon the jackfruit mixture evenly into the center of each lettuce leaf.
Step Nine
Sprinkle the chopped green onions, shredded carrots, and toasted sesame seeds over the filled lettuce wraps. Serve immediately and enjoy your Jackfruit “Chicken” Lettuce Wraps with Sesame Sauce!
