Balao-Balao Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup balao-balao (fermented rice)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 head of lettuce, washed and separated into leaves

Special equipment needed:
- None

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the balao-balao, onions, tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar to the pan.
4. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. To assemble the lettuce wraps, take a lettuce leaf and spoon a small amount of the pork mixture onto it.
7. Fold the lettuce leaf around the filling like a taco and enjoy!


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- Makes 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 20g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground pork can be substituted with ground chicken or turkey.
- Balao-balao can be substituted with kimchi or sauerkraut.

Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
- Top with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and pat them dry before using.
- If the filling is too salty, add a squeeze of lime juice to balance it out.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the filling in a pan over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the lettuce wraps on a platter and garnish with extra cilantro and green onions.

Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro and green onions

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of steamed rice or quinoa.

Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Grilled vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the filling is too dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to moisten it.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground pork thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent any foodborne illness.

Food history:
- Balao-balao is a traditional Filipino condiment made from fermented rice.

Flavor profiles:
- Salty, sour, and savory

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or light meal.

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Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Umami, Herbal, Aromatic