Sambal shrimp lettuce wraps for a tasty low-carb meal

Ingredients for Sambal shrimp lettuce wraps

• 120 ml hot chili paste (such as sambal oelek)

• 85 g honey

• 60 ml unseasoned rice vinegar

• 20 ml toasted sesame oil, divided

• 675 g large prawns

• kosher salt, to taste

• 30–60 ml white vegetable fat (e.g. Trex)

• 2 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced into rounds

• flaky sea salt, to taste

• 2 heads of Bibb lettuce, leaves separated, covered, chilled

• 120 ml mint sprigs

• 75 g crushed salted, dry-roasted peanuts

How to make Sambal shrimp lettuce wraps

1. Whisk together the hot chilli paste, honey, vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of sesame oil in a small bowl until combined.

2. Season the shrimp lightly with sea salt and place them in a resealable cling film bag.

3. Pour in half of the marinade, seal the bag, and ensure the shrimp are well coated.

4. Transfer the remaining marinade to a small bowl and set aside for serving.

5. Let the shrimp sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even coating.

6. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip back into the bag, and transfer them to paper towels to drain.

7. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.

8. Working in batches, add the shrimp in a single layer to the frying pan, adding another tablespoon of oil if the pan looks dry.

9. Cook the shrimp undisturbed for 2 minutes, until the marinade darkens in colour and some sugars begin to caramelise.

10. Turn the shrimp over and cook for a further 30 seconds.

11. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a platter.

12. Arrange the cucumbers next to the shrimp on the platter; season with sea salt and drizzle with the remaining 2 teaspoons of sesame oil.

13. Arrange the lettuce leaves and mint sprigs on the platter, ensuring each component is visible and easily accessible.

14. Place crushed peanuts in a small bowl and set it next to the platter, along with the reserved marinade for spooning into wraps.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.