One-skillet meals make life so much simpler! And that’s definitely a plus, whether you’re doing Whole30 or not!
For some reason, I’ve been craving Asian-style food this month. It started with constantly daydreaming about my favorite let’s-go-out-for-dinner, Chicken Pho Bowls (which are now my favorite let’s-stay-in-for-dinner).
Then this weekend, I started thinking about Thai lettuce Wraps and got all silly-excited about creating a quick-n-easy version featuring delicious Whole30-friendly ingredients.
Variety is the spice of life! … Especially during the later phase of Whole30, when it’s not uncommon to experience serious food boredom. Yet, there’s an easy way to get past this little hurdle – simply spice up your life with something new (or enjoy a new spin on an old favorite).
This simple one-skillet meal is definitely a flavorful new spin! Traditional Asian style wraps call for hoisin sauce, and although you can find gluten-free hoisin, it’s still a big no-no on Whole30 since it’s loaded with non-compliant ingredients. But not to worry, this recipe captures the sweet-n-spicy flavors beautifully!
I’ve also gone off the beaten path by using ground turkey, as most Asian style wraps are made with ground chicken. Personally, I prefer ground dark meat turkey, because I find it to be more flavorful and it’s usually easier to find.
P.S. If you have the luxury of leftovers, or simply want another delicious way to enjoy this tasty dish, I highly recommend creating a spectacular Asian Style Salad.
Start with a bed of butter lettuce. Then, pile a big mound of this sweet-n-spicy meat on top. Next, toss in some cashew pieces and fresh mandarin or clementine orange slices (if using canned mandarins, be sure to read labels to avoid unwanted additives).
Finish with a squeeze of lime and a dash of toasted sesame seeds. Amazing!! (See recipe note below.) Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 3 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar (yes, it's Whole30-compliant)
- 2 Tbsp minced fresh garlic
- 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger (use a microplane grater)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 lbs ground dark meat turkey (or chicken)
- 1/2 cup fine diced sweet onion
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 Tbsp arrowroot (optional, to thicken sauce)
- Bibb or Butter Leaf lettuce
- Shredded carrot
- Sliced green onions
- Diced red pepper
- Cashew pieces
Instructions
- For the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Set aside.
- For the meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the diced onion. Sauté 1-2 minutes until onion softens, then add the ground turkey (or chicken). Season with sea salt.
- Sauté ground meat until cooked through (about 3-4 minutes). For perfectly crumbled meat, a potato masher to stir and mash the meat.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add the sauce and arrowroot to the meat, stirring until well combined. Continue cooking and stirring the meat mixture until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
- To serve: Spoon the tasty meat mixture onto soft lettuce leaves and garnish with your favorite accompaniments. So delicious!
Notes
Got leftovers? This dish makes a spectacular Asian Style Salad! Start with a bed of butter lettuce. Then, pile a big mound of this sweet-n-spicy meat on top. Next, toss in some cashew pieces and fresh mandarin or clementine orange slices (if using canned mandarins, be sure to read labels to avoid unwanted additives). Finish with a squeeze of lime and a dash of toasted sesame seeds. Amazing!!
