Welcome to a world of flavor-packed, health-conscious dining with our irresistible Lettuce Wraps with 5-Spices Turkey! This dish is not only delicious but also perfectly aligned with your wellness goals. Whether you’re looking to cut carbs, explore new tastes, or simply enjoy a light yet satisfying meal, these wraps have got you covered.
Our recipe features lean turkey infused with aromatic Chinese five-spice powder, nestled in crisp lettuce leaves for a delightful crunch. But don’t worry, plant-based eaters – we’ve got you in mind too! We’ll show you how to easily transform this dish into a vegetarian or vegan delight by swapping the turkey with crumbled tofu and mushrooms or your favorite plant-based meat alternative. The five-spice blend works wonders with these substitutes, ensuring everyone can savor this flavorful, budget-friendly meal.
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What you will learn.
- Protein Power: Tips for preparing juicy, flavorful turkey filling (and plant-based alternatives!)
- Wrap It Up: Techniques for assembling picture-perfect lettuce wraps that don’t fall apart
- Veggie Variety: Ideas for nutritious vegetable add-ins to boost flavor and nutrition
- Sauce It Up: Easy, healthy sauce recipes to complement your wraps
- Meal Prep Magic: How to prepare components in advance for quick weeknight dinners
- Nutritional Know-How: Understanding the health benefits of this low-carb, high-protein meal
- Dietary Adaptations: Simple swaps to make this recipe vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free
- Longevity Boost: Discover how the ingredients in these wraps contribute to a longer, healthier life

Longevity Nutrition of Ginger Root
Antioxidant
- Ginger is rich in antioxidants, particularly gingerols and shogaols.
- These compounds help fight oxidative stress and reduce cellular damage, potentially slowing the aging process.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Chronic inflammation is linked to various age-related diseases.
- Ginger’s potent anti-inflammatory effects may help combat these conditions, promoting longevity.
Heart Health Booster
- Regular consumption may help lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.
- This can contribute to better cardiovascular health, a key factor in longevity.
Blood Sugar Regulation
- Some studies suggest ginger may help improve insulin sensitivity.
- Better blood sugar control is associated with a reduced risk of age-related diseases like type 2 diabetes.
Digestive Health Support
- Ginger aids digestion and reduces nausea.
- A healthy gut is increasingly recognized as crucial for overall health and longevity.
Brain Function Protection
- The antioxidants in ginger may help protect against age-related cognitive decline.
- It may also improve brain function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Immune System Boost
- Ginger has antimicrobial properties and may help strengthen the immune system.
- A robust immune system is essential for fighting off diseases and promoting longevity.
Low in Calories, High in Nutrients
- Ginger is low in calories but packed with vitamins and minerals.
- It contains small amounts of iron, zinc, and vitamins B3, B6, and C.
More Asian recipes:

SIS - Simple is Smart Tip
Swap out the turkey for plant-based alternatives for a delicious vegan or vegetarian twist on our 5-Spice Lettuce Wraps. Crumbled extra-firm tofu works wonderfully, absorbing the aromatic five-spice blend while adding a satisfying texture. Finely chopped mushrooms (like shiitake or portobello) offer a rich, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices for a meatier bite. If you prefer, use a store-bought plant-based ground meat alternative – many brands now offer options that mimic the texture of ground turkey. Whichever you choose, the key is to cook your plant-based protein with the same care and seasoning as you would the turkey. This ensures you’ll create a just as flavorful and satisfying filling while keeping the dish entirely plant-based and equally nutritious. Remember, experimenting with these alternatives caters to different dietary needs and adds exciting variety to your meal rotation!

Ingredients for Lettuce Wraps with Turkey
Lean ground turkey: High-quality protein source, low in saturated fat, supporting muscle health and weight management.
Sesame oil: Rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, potentially lowering inflammation and supporting heart health.
Garlic: Contains allicin, known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Ginger: Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, may improve digestion and reduce chronic disease risk.
Chinese five-spice powder: Blend of spices with various antioxidants, potentially aiding in cellular protection.
Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides umami flavor without excess sodium, supporting heart health.
Rice vinegar: May help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Red bell pepper: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune function and skin health.
Water chestnuts: Low-calorie, high-fiber addition, promoting digestive health and satiety.
Green onions: Rich in vitamins K and C, supporting bone health and immune function.
Butter lettuce: Low-calorie, nutrient-dense green, providing fiber and various vitamins.
Peanuts/cashews: Heart-healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium, supporting overall health
Hoisin Sauce: Contains antioxidants but use sparingly due to the sugar and sodium content.

Instructions for Lettuce Wraps with Turkey
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey and five-spice powder. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). For a vegan option, substitute plant-based meat or extra firm tofu and mushrooms. You may need to cook longer, as you want all of the moisture to cook off, leaving the mixture slightly dry.
Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, bell pepper, and water chestnuts. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.
Remove from heat and stir in most green onions, reserving some for garnish.
In a small bowl, mix hoisin sauce, water, and sesame oil for the sauce.
To serve, spoon the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves, drizzle with sauce, and sprinkle with remaining green onions and chopped nuts and some julienne carrots.

Meal Prep Suggestions for Lettuce Wrap with Turkey
Prep the turkey filling:
- Cook the turkey mixture as per the recipe
- Cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge (lasts 3-4 days)
- Portion into individual servings for quick grab-and-go options
Veggie prep:
- Wash and dry lettuce leaves, store wrapped in paper towels in a sealed bag
- Keep the sliced onions and Julienne carrots for garnish in a separate container
Make-ahead sauce:
- Mix the Hoisin sauce blend and store in a small jar
- This will stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
- Nut Prep
- Toast a batch of chopped peanuts or cashews
- Store in a small container at room temperature
Assembly tips:
- Keep all components separate until ready to eat
- For work lunches, pack turkey, sauce, and toppings in small containers
- Bring whole lettuce leaves wrapped in a damp paper towel
Quick assembly idea:
Heat the turkey mixture in the microwave, then build your wraps with crisp lettuce, warm turkey, and cool, crunchy toppings. It’s a perfect balance of textures and temperatures!

FAQ for Lettuce Wraps with Turkey
Can I make these lettuce wraps ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey filling and chop the vegetables in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the filling and assemble your wraps for a quick, fresh meal.
What type of lettuce works best for these wraps?
We recommend using butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce for these wraps. Butter lettuce offers a softer texture and mild flavor, while iceberg provides a satisfying crunch. Both types hold up well to the filling without tearing easily.
Is this recipe suitable for those on a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes! These lettuce wraps are an excellent choice for low-carb and keto diets. The lettuce leaves replace traditional carb-heavy wraps, and the turkey filling is high in protein and low in carbs. Just be mindful of any added sauces, and you’re good to go!
How spicy is the five-spice blend? Can I adjust the heat level?
Chinese five-spice blend is aromatic rather than spicy. It typically contains cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns. If you’d like to add heat, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sriracha sauce to your filling.
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Definitely! Ground chicken is a great alternative to turkey in this recipe. It has a similar texture and will absorb the five-spice flavors beautifully. Just ensure you cook it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What are some good side dishes to serve with these lettuce wraps?
These wraps pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try a light Asian-inspired slaw, steamed edamame, or a small portion of brown rice for added fiber. For a refreshing touch, a cucumber and carrot salad with rice vinegar dressing complements the flavors nicely.
How do these lettuce wraps contribute to a longevity-focused diet?
These wraps are packed with nutrients that support longevity. Lean turkey provides high-quality protein without excess saturated fat. The lettuce and added vegetables offer fiber and antioxidants. The five-spice blend contains anti-inflammatory compounds. By choosing this low-calorie, nutrient-dense meal, you’re supporting heart health, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing your body with essential vitamins and minerals – all factors that contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Lettuce Wraps with 5 Spices Turkey
Equipment
- This page contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click a link, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you
- To see the ingredient amounts in metric units, click the blue "METRIC:" button between the ingredients and the instructions for this recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey see notes for Vegan/vegetarian option
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp Umami Powder
- ½ cup water Chestnuts chopped
- 4 green onions sliced
- 1 head butter lettuce - leaves seperated
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts or cashews
Sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey and five-spice powder. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned(about 5-7 minutes). see notes for vegan option in place of turkey.
- Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, bell pepper, and water chestnuts. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender
- Remove from the heat and stir in most of the green onions, reserving some for garnish.
- In a small bowl, mix the hoisin sauce, water, and sesame oil for the sauce
- To serve, spoon the turkey mixture into lettuce leaves, drizzle with sauce, and sprinkle with remaining green onions and chopped nuts.
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