Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups Larb Gai Laab Gai

Peanut butter in Thai chicken lettuce cups (Laab Gai)? This unexpected ingredient promises an explosion of flavor you won't want to miss.

chicken lettuce cups dish

Craving a flavor explosion? Prepare to be amazed by this Thai Chicken Lettuce Cups recipe, also known as Laab Gai!

This dish is a symphony of salty, sour, and spicy flavors, featuring surprising ingredients like peanut butter that will redefine your understanding of delicious Thai cuisine.

What Is Laab Gai?

chicken minced salad recipe

I know what you're thinking—"Laab Gai, what's that?" Well, let me tell you, it's a super yummy Thai dish that's like a party in your mouth! It's traditionally made with ground meat—usually chicken, but you could totally use other meats.

Think of it like a flavor explosion—salty, sour, spicy, and savory all at once! It's often served with lettuce cups, so you can scoop it up and eat it like a taco. Yeah, that's how great it is. This dish often features ingredients like fish sauce and chili flakes to create the perfect flavor profile.

Now, I know what you are probably thinking: Is it complicated to make? Not at all! I'm going to show you a recipe that's quick and easy and might become your favorite dish! Trust me, you're gonna love it.

Key Ingredients

ingredient information directions absent

Alright, let's look into the heart of this recipe—the key ingredients that'll make your taste buds sing! First, you'll need 200g of chicken mince; it's your protein superstar, so don't skimp! Next, grab 1 tbsp of oil, the slick foundation for flavor town. Now imagine this:

  • The sizzle of garlic and the earthy aroma of curry powder hitting the hot oil. Can you smell it already?!
  • A splash of dark soy sauce — it's the umami boost that elevates the dish from good to "OMG, what IS this?!"
  • The creamy dance of coconut milk and peanut butter, swirled into a tangy cider vinegar embrace — trust me, it will get you feeling some type of way.

Like the Thai chicken satay, this recipe utilizes coconut milk to create a wonderful texture.

You'll also need 1 tsp curry powder, 1 1/2 tbsp red curry paste and ramen noodles, along with some spinach. Oh, and don't forget the peanuts, coriander, and sriracha for garnish – because we eat with our eyes first, right?

Cooking Instructions

follow a recipe

Let's explore into the step-by-step – I promise it's easier than doing long division! First, I like to heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet on high heat. Once it's hot, I add minced garlic and cook 'til golden, about 20 seconds.

Next, I throw in 200g of chicken mince, breaking it up 'til it turns white – roughly 2 minutes. Then, I stir in 1 tbsp of red curry paste, 1 tsp of curry powder, and 1 tsp of dark soy sauce, cooking for another minute!

I clear a space, add 1/2 tbsp of curry paste, and stir for 30 seconds. I then pour in 1 1/2 cups of chicken stock and simmer. Squish in the noodle cakes, cook, flip, and separate!

It's time for the peanut sauce – combine coconut milk, peanut butter, and vinegar! Finally, I toss in spinach until it wilts, and I make sure the sauce is still nice and saucy!

Serving Suggestions

food handling serving ideas

Moving from the stovetop to the table, you'll want to transfer the saucy noodle mixture into serving bowls—don't skimp on that sauce; it's too good to leave behind! I usually grab a smaller bowl for myself 'cause, well, seconds are definitely happening!

Now, think about toppings! I love a vibrant, fresh burst against the richness of the noodles. Consider these:

  • A generous sprinkle of chopped peanuts—that nutty crunch? Divine.
  • Fresh cilantro—it screams "I'm fancy," even though it's just a leaf, isn't it!
  • A dollop of sriracha—for that kick that wakes you up!

Don't serve it all at once; let folks top their own bowls. Watch as everyone dives into their own customized noodle creation. It brings a smile to my face every time!

Short Recipe Version

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Serving Size: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup peanut sauce
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Sriracha to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
  2. Stir in curry powder and soy sauce.
  3. Mix in peanut butter and peanut sauce.
  4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
  5. Serve in lettuce cups topped with peanuts, cilantro, and sriracha.

Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g