Brown 1lb of lean ground meat. You can use any kind you like (Chicken, Beef, Turkey). I used pork. Once meat is brown then add:
2 Tbs of grated ginger
1 Tbs of grated garlic
1 small can of water chestnuts chopped
2 jalapenos (seeded) chopped
scallions chopped **white part only
Cook 3-4 minutes.
Note: Reserve the green part of the scallions for garnish to be used later.
Now add a handful each of fresh mint leaves and Thai Basil chopped. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
The Sauce:
1 Tbs of Chili Sambal (or red pepper flakes to taste)
1 tsp of Sesame Oil
2 Tbs of Fish Sauce
2 Tbs of Soy Sauce
2 Tbs of Rice Vinegar
2 Tbs of Chinese cooking wine or dry Sherry
1/2 tsp brown sugar
Note: Soy Sauce and Fish Sauce are used as salt in Thai and Chinese cooking. So if you are not a fan of salt adjust your dish accordingly.
Wash and dry your favorite lettuce. I used Bib Lettuce because it comes in a nice "cup" shape. You can use Iceberg, Romaine etc...
You can place about 1-2 Tbs of meat filling on each lettuce leaf. Garnish with green scallions and chopped peanuts.
Enjoy as an appetizer to any Asian style meal. This is also a great snack.