Sesame Turkey Lettuce Wrap Bowls

This vibrant bowl features Korean-style sesame turkey, fluffy jasmine rice, and crisp vegetables for a fresh and satisfying meal. With its balance of savory heat and cool cucumber ribbons, it's a healthy dish that comes together in just 35 minutes.

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The caramelized turkey pairs beautifully with the crunch of the romaine lettuce and the sweetness of the carrot matchsticks, making every bite an experience in texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked jasmine or short-grain rice
• 1 large head romaine or butter lettuce, leaves separated
• 1 large cucumber, cut into ribbons
• 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks or ribbons
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
• 1/4 cup pickled radishes (optional)
• Additional toasted sesame seeds and lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the rice according to package instructions and keep warm.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, add sesame oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add ground turkey. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in soy sauce, gochujang, honey, and rice vinegar. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the turkey is well coated and slightly caramelized.

Step 5

Stir in green onions and sesame seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Step 6

Arrange rice in serving bowls. Top with sesame turkey.

Step 7

Add lettuce leaves, cucumber ribbons, carrot matchsticks, cilantro, and pickled radishes as desired.

Step 8

Garnish with extra sesame seeds and serve with lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons of cucumber for a professional look. To control the heat, start with a small amount of gochujang and add more as needed.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a low-carb version, replace the jasmine rice with cauliflower rice. You can also substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or beef depending on your preference.

Serviervorschläge

Serve the lettuce leaves on the side to allow everyone to build their own wraps. Be sure to provide plenty of lime wedges to squeeze over the turkey for a bright finish.

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Whether you enjoy it as a bowl or a wrap, this sesame turkey dish is a delicious way to enjoy a dairy-free meal that is both light and filling.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this dish Korean-inspired?

The combination of gochujang, sesame oil, fresh ginger, and garlic creates authentic Korean flavors. Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste that adds depth and mild heat.

→ Can I make this bowl lower in carbohydrates?

Absolutely. Swap the jasmine rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbs significantly while maintaining texture. The turkey and vegetables provide plenty of nutrients.

→ What can I substitute for ground turkey?

Ground chicken or beef work equally well. The seasoning blend complements any lean ground meat. For a vegetarian option, use crumbled tofu or tempeh.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the gochujang amount. Start with one tablespoon for mild heat, or increase to two tablespoons for more kick. The honey balances the spice nicely.

→ Can I prepare components ahead?

Yes. Cook the rice and slice vegetables up to a day in advance. The turkey mixture can be made ahead and reheated—flavors actually improve overnight. Assemble just before serving.

→ What other toppings work well?

Try pickled vegetables, sliced jalapeños, shredded purple cabbage, or a fried egg. Extra kimchi adds authentic Korean flavor and probiotics.