Name: Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils, picked over and rinsed; 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 cup chopped red bell pepper (1 small); 3/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion (1 small); 1 cup matchstick carrots; 1 Tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves); 1 Tbsp peeled and minced fresh ginger; 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, or more to taste; 2 Tbsp soy sauce, or to taste; 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro; Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional); 1 – 2 heads iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce, leaves separated, rinsed and dried

Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 7 reviews

If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and fun to eat, I have to share my all-time favorite Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe with you. This dish is a delightful mix of tender lentils, crisp veggies, and that irresistible Asian-inspired sauce wrapped up in cool, crunchy lettuce leaves. Seriously, once you try it, these wraps might just become your go-to weeknight meal or party appetizer. Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through every step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Satisfying & Healthy: Lentils pack protein and fiber to keep you full without feeling heavy.
Easy to Make: From start to finish, you’ll have this on the table in just about 35 minutes.
Fresh & Flavorful: The crunchy lettuce paired with tangy-sweet hoisin and fresh herbs makes every bite exciting.
Versatile & Customizable: You can swap veggies or adjust heat to suit your taste perfectly.

Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps, healthy Asian lettuce wraps, vegan lentil wraps, quick vegetarian appetizer, flavorful lettuce wraps - A white plate holds seven lettuce cups arranged in a circular pattern on a white marbled surface. Each cup has bright green lettuce leaves forming a bowl shape, filled with a mixture of orange lentils, small chopped red bell peppers, shredded orange carrots, and small green onion pieces, topped with white sesame seeds. To the top left is a black pan, showing more of the lentil mixture, and to the top right are two bottles, one dark with a yellow label and the other red with white text. Green onions and cilantro sprigs lie scattered around the plate, and a gray knit cloth is visible on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe lies in combining simple, wholesome ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture. Red lentils cook quickly and soak up the savory sauce beautifully while the crunchy water chestnuts and walnuts add a delightful contrast. I always grab fresh ginger and garlic—they’re essential for that authentic zing.

Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps, healthy Asian lettuce wraps, vegan lentil wraps, quick vegetarian appetizer, flavorful lettuce wraps - Flat lay of a small mound of rinsed red lentils, a few fresh red bell pepper pieces, finely chopped yellow onion, a small pile of matchstick-cut carrots, minced garlic cloves, peeled and minced fresh ginger root, a small white bowl of dark hoisin sauce, a small white bowl of soy sauce, a small white bowl of rice vinegar, a small white bowl of sesame oil, chopped water chestnuts, chopped walnuts, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro sprigs, sesame seeds scattered neatly, and a few separated crisp iceberg lettuce leaves, all arranged symmetrically on simple white ceramic dishes and bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Red lentils: They cook faster than other lentils and get tender without turning mushy, perfect for wraps.
Olive oil: A neutral pan-frying oil to soften veggies without overpowering the flavors.
Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a splash of color that livens up the filling.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Carrots (matchstick): Provide crunch and subtle sweetness—they also hold up well when cooked briefly.
Garlic & fresh ginger: The classic flavor duo for that savory, aromatic lift.
Hoisin sauce: The star sauce here—sweet, tangy, and rich with umami. Don’t skimp!
Soy sauce: Brings saltiness and helps balance the sweet hoisin.
Rice vinegar: A touch of acidity to keep things bright and fresh.
Sesame oil: Just a little for that toasty nuttiness—trust me, it makes a difference.
Water chestnuts: Crunchy little bursts that keep the texture fun and fresh.
Walnuts: Adds unexpected crunch and richness without overwhelming the dish.
Green onions & cilantro: Fresh herbs that give a lovely herbal lift and pop of color.
Iceberg or butter lettuce: Crisp leaves that hold the filling perfectly—wash and dry well to avoid soggy wraps.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

One reason I love this Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe is how easy it is to customize it around what you love or have on hand. Whether you’re avoiding nuts, want more heat, or need it gluten-free, it flexes beautifully to fit your kitchen style.

Spicy Variation: I like to toss in a little chili garlic sauce or fresh chopped red chilies for a nice kick when I want to spice things up.
Nut-Free Version: Simply skip the walnuts and add extra water chestnuts or toasted sesame seeds for crunch.
Different Greens: While iceberg or butter lettuce works best for wraps, sometimes I use sturdy kale leaves or cabbage leaves if I want more texture.
Extra Protein: If you want to bulk it up, adding diced tofu or cooked shredded chicken can make it heartier without losing the original vibe.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Lentils Tender but Not Mushy

Start by rinsing your red lentils thoroughly to remove any debris. Then, simmer them in unsalted water for about 15 minutes until they’re just tender but still hold their shape. Drain them well so your filling isn’t watery. I’ve learned that overcooked lentils can get mushy and soggy—the perfect texture makes all the difference here. Set them aside while you prep the veggies.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies to Sweet, Soft Perfection

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and toss in chopped red bell pepper and yellow onion. Stir them gently for 5 to 6 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then add your matchstick carrots, garlic, and fresh ginger, sautéing just another minute to keep those bright flavors intact. This combo builds the flavor base that makes the whole dish sing.

Step 3: Combine Lentils, Sauces & Crunchy Add-Ins

Now, add your drained lentils back to the pan along with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Toss everything well so the lentils soak up all that saucy goodness. Stir in your chopped water chestnuts, and cook for one more minute. If the mixture looks dry, you can thin it out with a tablespoon or two of water since lentils absorb moisture as it rests. Finally, stir in chopped walnuts, sprinkling green onions and cilantro on top for freshness.

Step 4: Serve Warm in Crisp Lettuce Leaves

Scoop the warm filling onto your clean, dry iceberg or butter lettuce leaves. I love doubling up the leaves—it makes the wrap sturdier and easier to hold. Add a sprinkling of sesame seeds if you like a little extra crunch and nuttiness. Dig in while it’s warm and fresh for the best experience!

Pro Tips for Making Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Pick the Right Lentils: I find red lentils are best because they soften quickly and hold shape; brown or green lentils will take longer and change the texture.
Dry Lettuce Leaves Thoroughly: Using a salad spinner or patting dry well prevents soggy wraps, keeping them crisp and easy to handle.
Balance Your Sauces to Taste: Sometimes I adjust hoisin or soy sauce amounts depending on sweetness and saltiness to keep it perfect for my palate.
Add Nuts Last: Toss in walnuts at the end off the heat to keep their crunch and avoid bitterness from overcooking.

How to Serve Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps, healthy Asian lettuce wraps, vegan lentil wraps, quick vegetarian appetizer, flavorful lettuce wraps - The image shows six fresh green lettuce cups arranged on a white plate with a white marbled surface underneath. Each lettuce cup forms a leafy bowl that holds a filling composed of different colored ingredients: light brown lentils, small pieces of red bell pepper, thin orange carrot strips, chopped green herbs, and some white sesame seeds sprinkled on top. The lettuce leaves appear crisp and bright green with a soft texture, curling slightly around the filling. Scattered pieces of green herbs and sesame seeds lie around the plate on the white marbled surface, contributing to a fresh and clean look. Behind the plate, the blurred background adds depth with a dark cloth and a pan partially visible. No woman’s hand is visible in this image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I always garnish with freshly chopped green onions and cilantro right before serving—it adds such brightness and color. Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top give a nutty finish and extra texture that I absolutely love. Sriracha on the side is a must for anyone who wants some heat.

Side Dishes

For a light meal, serve these wraps alongside a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a little sugar. If you’re feeling hungrier, garlic fried rice or steamed jasmine rice make excellent companions. They soak up any extra sauce and round out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

I like to serve these Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe on a large platter with the filling in a bowl in the center and the lettuce leaves artfully arranged around it. It’s fun for gatherings because everyone can assemble their own wraps. For a party, try mini romaine “boats” filled with the mixture for individual portions—super cute and totally Instagrammable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After making the filling, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. I keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners. Just store your lettuce leaves separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this lentil filling once or twice with success. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it keeps well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove or microwave before serving. Note: Lettuce leaves don’t freeze well, so always add those fresh.

Reheating

I like reheating the filling gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often, so it doesn’t dry out or get mushy. Adding a splash of water or extra hoisin sauce can refresh the texture and flavor. Keep your lettuce chilled and assemble just before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils for the Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe?

You can swap in brown or green lentils, but keep in mind they take longer to cook and have a firmer texture than red lentils. Cooking times will vary, and the texture might change slightly but still be delicious.
How do I keep the lettuce leaves from getting soggy?

Make sure to wash and dry the lettuce leaves thoroughly, ideally using a salad spinner or patting them dry with towels. Also, keep the filling warm and the lettuce refrigerated separately until ready to serve, assembling the wraps last minute.
Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan. For gluten-free, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free or use a substitute like a gluten-free sweet chili sauce.
What’s the best lettuce to use for these wraps?

Iceberg and butter lettuce are my top picks because their leaves are sturdy, crisp, and easy to wrap around the filling. Romaine or green leaf lettuce can work too if you want a bit more texture.

Final Thoughts

This Asian Lentil Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a personal favorite because it’s approachable, nourishing, and just downright fun to eat. It reminds me of those casual dinners at home where everyone’s chatting and building their own wraps—such a simple joy. Give it a try—the balance of fresh, savory, and crunchy is something you’ll come back to again and again. Trust me, once you make it, it quickly earns a special spot in your recipe rotation!