Quick Beef Lettuce Wraps

1.Prepare all vegetables: finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, shred the carrots, chop green onions and cilantro, and separate the lettuce leaves carefully to keep them intact.

2.Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or electric skillet over medium heat (if no stove, use an electric skillet or hot plate).

3.Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.

4.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

5.Add the pre-cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine with onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.

6.In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.

7.Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the skillet and stir well to coat all the beef evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and add salt if needed.

8.Remove the skillet from heat. To assemble, spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.

9.Top each wrap with shredded carrots, chopped green onions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts if desired for added texture and flavor.

10.Serve immediately as a fresh, handheld wrap. Provide extra sauce on the side if preferred.