Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced carrots
- 8 large lettuce leaves
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- Grill
- Large bowl
- Medium skillet
- Tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, tomato sauce, and honey. Mix until all ingredients are combined.
3. Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. In a medium skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and carrots to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the beef mixture to the skillet and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Place the lettuce leaves on the preheated grill and cook for 2 minutes, flipping once.
8. Remove the lettuce leaves from the grill and place on a plate.
9. Divide the beef mixture among the lettuce leaves and top with crumbled feta cheese.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving Size: 8 lettuce wraps
Nutritional Information: (per serving)
Calories: 285
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Red wine vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Tomato sauce can be substituted with tomato paste.
- Honey can be substituted with agave nectar or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add cooked rice or quinoa to the beef mixture for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
- Add diced jalapenos or diced habanero peppers for a spicy kick.
- Substitute the feta cheese with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a vegan version, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
- To make the wraps easier to eat, cut them into halves or quarters.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover lettuce wraps can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Leftover lettuce wraps can be reheated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the lettuce wraps on a platter with a side of salsa or guacamole.
- Arrange the lettuce wraps on a plate with a variety of fresh vegetables.
Garnishes:
- Sliced avocado
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapenos
- Sliced green onions
Pairings:
- Grilled corn
- Roasted potatoes
- Baked beans
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Fruit salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the lettuce wraps are too dry, add a few tablespoons of water or broth to the beef mixture.
- If the lettuce wraps are too spicy, add a few tablespoons of honey or agave nectar to the beef mixture.
Food Safety Advice:
- Cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Lettuce wraps have been enjoyed around the world for centuries. They originated in Asia and have since become popular in many other countries, including the United States.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the honey. The garlic, onion, and herbs add depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the lettuce wraps with a side of chips and salsa.
- Serve the lettuce wraps with a side of rice and beans.
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