Name: Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cornstarch; ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1 tablespoon chili paste, such as Sambal Oelek; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 3 tablespoons honey; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon minced ginger (from a 1-inch piece); 2 pounds medium shrimp, deveined, tails removed; 1 (13-ounce) bag chopped cabbage salad (dressing packet discarded); 1 to 2 heads butter lettuce, leaves separated (about 20 leaves); Cilantro, chopped; Sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving something bursting with flavor yet light enough to keep you feeling fresh, this Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Succulent shrimp get coated in a glossy, honey-garlic-chili sauce that’s laced with fresh ginger and a touch of toasted sesame oil. Wrapped in crisp, buttery lettuce leaves and layered with crunchy cabbage slaw, these wraps balance sweet, spicy, and savory notes in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, you’re about to discover a dish that’s quick, colorful, and endlessly satisfying.

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up view of a black frying pan filled with a thick, dark brown sauce mixed with small white and yellow bits, likely garlic and spices. The sauce has a glossy texture and looks stirred, with a light-colored wooden spoon resting inside the pan on the right side. The pan itself has a light gray rim and a black handle on the right. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe stays simple by focusing on a handful of ingredients that pack big flavor. Each component plays a vital role—from the sticky, sweet sauce to the fresh crunch of lettuce—ensuring every bite delights your taste buds and textures your plate beautifully.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect sticky glaze coating the shrimp.
Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari: Adds umami depth without overpowering the dish’s balance.
Toasted sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that makes the sauce irresistibly fragrant.
Chili paste (Sambal Oelek): Brings a gentle heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Brown sugar: Enhances the caramel notes and balances the heat and acidity.
Honey: Provides the signature sticky sweetness binding all ingredients together.
Garlic cloves (minced): Imparts a punch of savory warmth.
Fresh ginger (minced): Adds a zesty brightness that wakes up the palate.
Medium shrimp (deveined, tails removed): The star of the dish—plump, tender, and quick to cook.
Chopped cabbage salad (without dressing): Offers a crisp, fresh crunch inside the wraps.
Butter lettuce leaves: Soft yet sturdy, these leaves make perfect edible cups.
Cilantro (optional): A fresh herbal note that elevates the overall flavor.
Sesame seeds (optional): A little nutty crunch and visual appeal on top.

How to Make Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

Start by mixing cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry that will thicken the sauce perfectly. In a separate bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, chili paste, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to bring it all together—this blend is where the magic begins.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp in Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the sauce mixture. Once it starts simmering, add the shrimp. Be attentive as the sauce thickens and turns beautifully glossy while the shrimp cook through in about five to eight minutes. You’ll know the shrimp are ready when they turn opaque and the sauce clings to each piece like a flavorful glaze.

Step 3: Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

Lay out your butter lettuce leaves like little boats and spoon some chopped cabbage salad into each one for a refreshing crunch. Top generously with your sticky shrimp, then finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and sesame seeds if you’re using them. For an extra drizzle, don’t hesitate to pour on any leftover sauce—it’s pure gold.

How to Serve Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe

The image shows a white plate with five lettuce wraps arranged in a circle, each wrap made of a bright green leafy lettuce base. Inside each lettuce leaf, there are layers of shredded pale cabbage and thin orange carrot strips. On top, there are several orange-brown shrimp glazed with a shiny sauce, sprinkled with small black sesame seeds. Fresh green parsley leaves add color and texture on top of the shrimp. A small wooden bowl filled with black sesame seeds sits on the edge of the plate. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds lend not only a burst of color but also layers of taste and crunchy texture. A squeeze of lime or a few thinly sliced scallions can brighten up the plate further, making each wrap feel vibrant and fresh.

Side Dishes

Keep it light and balanced with sides like steamed jasmine rice, simple cucumber salad, or even some pickled vegetables. These help offset the richness of the sticky sauce while maintaining the dish’s fresh appeal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at gatherings, offer an array of toppings such as sliced avocado, shredded carrots, or crunchy peanuts so guests can customize their own wraps. Serving on a large platter with all elements beautifully arranged invites a shared, interactive meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately from the lettuce wraps and cabbage slaw in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and keeps everything tasting fresh for up to two days.

Freezing

If you’re thinking ahead, freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce in a suitable container for up to one month. Avoid freezing the lettuce or cabbage, as they lose their crispness and texture when thawed.

Reheating

Gently reheat the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Assemble the wraps fresh to maintain their refreshing crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lettuce for these wraps?

Yes! While butter lettuce is ideal for its tender texture and shape, romaine or green leaf lettuce also work well if you prefer a bit more crunch or sturdier cups.

How spicy is the Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe?

The chili paste adds a mild to moderate heat that balances nicely with the sweetness. You can adjust the amount of chili paste to make it milder or spicier to suit your preference.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

To keep this recipe gluten-free, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce, as traditional soy sauce contains wheat. Double-check your chili paste ingredients just to be sure.

Can I substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu?

Absolutely! Cubed chicken breast or extra-firm tofu can be cooked similarly in the sauce for a delicious alternative while keeping the same great flavors.

What’s the best way to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy?

Keep the lettuce leaves dry and assemble just before serving. Storing the components separately also helps maintain their texture and freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a joyful collision of flavors and textures that’s both speedy and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these wraps bring excitement to the dinner table and leave you eager for the next time. I can’t wait for you to savor every sticky, crunchy, savory bite!