San Choy Bao or San Choy Bow (Pork Lettuce Wraps)

Name: San Choy Bao / San Choy Bow (Pork and Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 500g (1 lb) ground pork (lean, for healthier option); 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 small brown onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated; 1 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped (for crunch); 1 medium carrot, finely diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced; 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin for sweetness); 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar; 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for spice); 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 1 head iceberg or butter lettuce (separate into cups); 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

San Choy Bow is a Chinese lettuce wrap that is very easy to make and very tasty. This San Choy Bao (Pork and Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps) is a healthy Asian recipe that’s both low carb and gluten free. This classic Chinese lettuce wrap recipe is the perfect blend of flavor, crunch, and nutrition, making it one of the best quick weeknight meals and a crowd-favorite low calorie dinner idea.

Made with juicy ground pork, fresh vegetables, and crunchy water chestnuts, all wrapped in crisp lettuce cups, this dish is not only delicious but also keto-friendly, high in protein, and perfect for weight management. This is a very good recipe as gluten free appetizer for parties, healthy lunches for the week, and an easy family dinner.

What makes this recipe special is that it’s faster than takeout, customizable for any diet (keto, paleo, gluten free, low carb, weight watchers), and naturally fits into a balanced lifestyle. Instead of greasy fried food, you’ll be enjoying a nutritious Asian-inspired dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes—saving you time, calories, and money.

Yield: 4 Wraps

San Choy Bao / San Choy Bow (Pork and Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps) Recipe

San Choy Bao (San Choy Bow), also known as Chinese Pork Lettuce Wraps, is a healthy Asian appetizer or light main dish made with juicy ground pork, crunchy water chestnuts, fresh vegetables, and savory Asian sauces, all wrapped in crisp lettuce cups. This low carb dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or as a gluten-free appetizer for parties.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

500g (1 lb) ground pork (lean, for healthier option)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 small brown onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated
1 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped (for crunch)
1 medium carrot, finely diced
1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin for sweetness)
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
1 tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 head iceberg or butter lettuce (separate into cups)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare lettuce cups: Wash and dry lettuce leaves. Keep chilled for crispness.
Cook pork: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned (5–6 minutes).
Add aromatics: Stir in onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
Add vegetables: Toss in carrot, bell pepper, and water chestnuts. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Season: Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice wine vinegar. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Finish: Add green onions and mix well. Remove from heat.
Assemble: Spoon pork mixture into lettuce cups. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions.
Serve immediately as a light dinner, appetizer, or party snack.

Notes

Use lean ground pork or turkey for a lighter version.
Swap water chestnuts with jicama or celery if unavailable.
Make it keto-friendly by skipping carrots and using extra mushrooms.
For meal prep, store pork filling separately and assemble lettuce wraps fresh.
Serve with chili garlic sauce or sriracha for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Serve as a party appetizer platter with dipping sauces.
Enjoy with Asian cucumber salad or miso soup for a balanced dinner.

Recipe Variations

Chicken San Choy Bao – Use ground chicken instead of pork.
Vegetarian San Choy Bao – Replace pork with tofu, mushrooms, and edamame.
Low-Carb Keto San Choy Bao – Skip carrots, use extra zucchini & mushrooms.
Gluten-Free San Choy Bao – Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 175Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 604mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 4gSugar: 7gProtein: 10g

Suggested: Chicken Frankie Recipe

What is San Choy Bao? (Pork & Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps)

San Choy Bao (sometimes spelled Sang Choi Bao) is a traditional Cantonese dish that has become one of the most popular Chinese lettuce wrap recipes worldwide. Literally translated, it means “lettuce wrap” – where a crisp lettuce leaf acts as a low-carb wrap, filled with a savory mixture of minced pork, crunchy water chestnuts, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful Asian sauces.

These Asian lettuce wraps are served as an appetizer in many Chinese restaurants, but can also be enjoyed as a healthy low carb dinner idea. Unlike heavily fried dishes, San Choy Bao is gluten-free, keto-friendly, and high in protein.

✅ Healthy Asian recipes for weight loss and balanced eating
✅ Quick weeknight meals ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Low carb dinner recipes for keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets
✅ High-protein Asian recipes perfect for family meals or meal prep

In fact, choosing San Choy Bao over typical takeout is a smart decision: you get all the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine without the extra calories, heavy oils, or MSG. It’s not just delicious – it’s a nutrient-rich, guilt-free meal that supports your wellness goals while still being family-friendly and budget-friendly.

💡 Fun Fact: San Choy Bao is often served at banquets in Asia as a “fresh start” dish because lettuce symbolizes prosperity and wealth in Chinese culture.

With its refreshing crunch, savory pork filling, and endless variations, San Choy Bao is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that blends authentic Asian flavors with a modern, healthy lifestyle recipe.

Related: 300 Calorie Lunch Ideas

⏱️ 30-Minute Dinner

Why This San Choy Bao (Pork & Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps) Works — For Health, Speed & Flavor

This healthy Asian recipe hits the sweet spot for a low-carb dinner, high-protein meal prep, and an easy gluten-free dinner recipe that outperforms takeout on taste, time, and nutrition.

✅ Nutrient-Dense & Low Carb

Crisp lettuce cups + lean ground pork + veggies = a low-carb, high-protein dinner that supports weight management and steady energy. Keep the crunch with water chestnuts for texture while staying keto-friendly (skip carrot for ultra low net carbs).

Great for keto, gluten-free, and WW-style goals.
Swap soy for tamari to keep it gluten-free.

⚡ 30-Minute, One-Pan Efficiency

This is a quick weeknight meal you can cook in one skillet—minimal dishes, maximum flavor. Perfect for busy professionals, students, and parents.

Meal-prep friendly: cook filling once, assemble fresh.
Scales for party appetizers or family dinners.

🍜 Big Flavor, Better Than Takeout

Aromatics (garlic, ginger), umami sauces, and a quick sear deliver restaurant-style flavor without the excess oil or sugar—ideal for a healthy Asian dinner.

Tip: add chili-garlic sauce for heat.

🔁 Customizable For Every Diet

Make it yours: ground chicken or turkey for leaner protein, or go vegetarian with tofu + mushrooms. Keep it keto by skipping sweet sauces and carrots.

Gluten-free: use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Dairy-free by default.

Evidence & Smart Choices

Choosing lean proteins and vegetables supports satiety and balanced meals. For a deeper dive on healthy protein choices and how they fit into an overall eating pattern, see this guide from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health .

🍽️ Why Cook This Instead of Ordering Takeout?

Control sodium, sugar, and oil versus restaurant versions.
Speed: on the table in ~30 minutes, faster than delivery at peak hours.
Flexible: customize protein, spice level, and carbs (add jasmine rice or keep it low-carb).
Saves money and fits healthy weight loss recipes goals.

Suggested: High-Protein Salad Bowls

🍳 Ingredients You’ll Need — San Choy Bao (Pork & Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps)

500 g

Ground pork (lean, 90–95%)

Protein-packed base for authentic pork lettuce wraps. Swap: ground turkey, chicken or crumbled firm tofu + mushrooms for vegetarian.
1 tbsp

Sesame oil

Adds nutty aroma — use avocado oil if a neutral flavor is preferred.
1 small

Brown onion, finely diced

Savoriness and body. Substitute shallots for a sweeter note.
2 cloves

Garlic, minced

Classic umami — keto and low-carb friendly.
1 tbsp

Fresh ginger, grated

Bright warmth that balances pork and aids digestion.
1 cup

Water chestnuts, finely chopped

Signature crunch for authentic San Choy Bao. Swap: jicama or celery if unavailable.
1 medium

Carrot, finely diced

Color + micronutrients. Keto option: reduce or replace with mushrooms/zucchini.
1/2

Red bell pepper, finely diced

Sweetness and vitamin C; green bell pepper if you want lower sweetness.
2 tbsp

Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

Core umami seasoning. Use low-sodium for a heart-healthier option.
1 tbsp

Oyster sauce (or hoisin for sweeter)

Silky glaze. Choose gluten-free oyster sauce when needed.
1 tbsp

Rice wine vinegar

Acid to balance richness; apple cider vinegar is an acceptable substitute.
1 tsp

Chili flakes (optional)

Add heat — or use chili garlic sauce / sriracha for more flavor complexity.
1/4 cup

Green onions, sliced

Fresh finish and garnish — stir some in, reserve some for topping.
1 head

Iceberg or butter lettuce (leaves separated into cups)

Crisp, sturdy cups for assembling wraps. Chill leaves for extra crunch.
1 tbsp

Toasted sesame seeds (garnish)

Visual finish and nutty pop — optional but recommended for plating.

For a balanced, high-protein low-carb dinner choose lean ground pork + tamari. For keto, skip carrots; for vegetarian, use tofu + mushrooms. These swaps keep the dish aligned with weight-loss, keto, and gluten-free meal plans while preserving the authentic texture and flavor.

Suggested: Cold Summer Soups

Step-by-Step Instructions — San Choy Bao (Pork & Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps)

Follow these quick, 30-minute steps to make authentic yet healthy Asian San Choy Bao — a top low carb dinner and gluten-free dinner idea.

Step 1: Prepare Lettuce Cups

Gently separate whole leaves from one head of iceberg or butter lettuce. Rinse, dry thoroughly (salad spinner helps), and chill for crispness. Choosing the right lettuce is crucial for a sturdy wrap.

Tip: Keep leaves chilled on a paper towel-lined tray to stay crisp while you cook the filling.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 500g lean ground pork. Cook until no longer pink and starting to brown — 5–7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up clumps for even cooking. This step builds the savory umami base that separates restaurant-style San Choy Bao from ordinary wraps.

Step 3: Stir in Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 small diced brown onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Aromatics unlock authentic Chinese flavor.

Step 4: Add Veggies & Crunch

Stir in 1 cup finely chopped water chestnuts, 1 diced carrot, and ½ red bell pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes so vegetables stay slightly crisp.

Substitutions: jicama or celery for water chestnuts

Adding water chestnuts, carrots and bell pepper

Step 5: Season for Umami

Add 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 1 tbsp oyster sauce, and 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar. Stir and cook 1–2 minutes so flavors meld. Taste and adjust.

Optional: 1 tsp chili flakes or 1 tsp chili garlic sauce for heat.

Seasoning with soy sauce, oyster sauce and rice wine vinegar

Step 6: Finish & Assemble

Stir in ¼ cup sliced green onions, remove from heat, and transfer filling to a bowl. Spoon warm filling into chilled lettuce cups. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and extra sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

🍴 Serving Suggestions — Best Pairings, Portions & Presentation

San Choy Bao (pork and water chestnut lettuce wraps) is renowned as a healthy Asian recipe that fulfills many meal goals — from low-carb dinner ideas and keto Chinese recipes to family-friendly party appetizers. Below are professionally tested serving ideas, portion guidelines, and presentation tips to help readers determine the best way to enjoy this dish.

Choose San Choy Bao for a healthy, high-protein dinner in 30 minutes. Compared to takeout, these wraps are lower in calories, customizable for keto and gluten-free diets, and cheaper per serving—perfect for weeknight meals or shareable party appetizers.

Perfect Pairings — Build a Balanced Plate (or Party Platter)

Pair San Choy Bao with sides that complement texture, flavor, and diet goals. Use these pairing ideas to craft low carb meals, healthy Asian dinners, party menus, or meal prep combos.

Cauliflower Rice (Keto & Low Carb)

Perfect as keto Chinese recipes or low carb dinner ideas. Light, neutral, and makes the meal feel complete without adding carbs.

Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Ginger-Cucumber Salad (Fresh & Gluten-Free)

Bright acidity and crunch cut through the savory pork—ideal for healthy Asian recipes and refreshing party platters.

Ginger-Cucumber Salad Recipe

Steamed Jasmine Rice (Family-Style Dinner)

Use it if you want a comforting, carb-inclusive dinner. Converts the recipe into a filling family meal without altering the authentic Asian flavor.

Jasmine Rice Recipe

Sauces & Dips — Boost Flavor

Chili Garlic Sauce / Sriracha — for heat lovers and social shares (Instagram reels idea: drizzle close-up).
Soy + Lime Dip — light, tangy, great for calorie-conscious eaters.
Ponzu or Tamari + Sesame — gluten-free option with umami depth.

Portion Guidance & Serving Sizes

Target portion sizes based on use-case:

Weeknight low-carb dinner: 5–6 lettuce cups per adult (with cauliflower rice) — satisfies high protein dinner needs.
Party appetizer: 2–3 small cups per person when part of a multi-course spread — perfect for party appetizer recipes.
Meal prep: Store meat filling in 1–2 cup portions; reheat & assemble fresh. Each 1 cup filling ≈ 3–4 lettuce cups.

Variations You’ll Love

Transform classic San Choy Bao into dozens of high-value meals — from keto-friendly to vegan, party-ready appetizers to meal-prep winners.

Which variation should you choose?

Want low-carb / keto: Choose Keto Pork or Shrimp Keto — skip carrots, add mushrooms & zucchini.
Feeding kids or picky eaters: Try Chicken Teriyaki San Choy Bao with mild sauce.
Vegetarian / Vegan: Pick Tofu & Mushroom or Jackfruit—same texture, plant-based protein.
Meal-prep: Make the filling in bulk (stores 3–4 days) and assemble fresh to retain lettuce crunch.

Variation

1. Classic Chicken San Choy Bao

Swap ground pork for lean ground chicken for a lighter, high-protein option. Keeps the same savory Asian profile while reducing overall fat — great for healthy weeknight dinners.

Jump to recipe

Plant-Based

2. Vegetarian / Vegan San Choy Bao (Tofu & Mushroom)

Crumbled firm tofu + finely chopped shiitake or oyster mushrooms replicate the meaty texture. Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free seasoning. Ideal for meatless Mondays and vegetarian meal prep.

Get vegan recipe

Keto

3. Keto Pork San Choy Bao (Low-Carb)

Keep ground pork but skip carrots; increase mushrooms, diced zucchini and water chestnuts for crunch. Use sugar-free oyster sauce or a homemade soy-coconut aminos mix for zero added sugar.

Keto recipe

Gluten-Free

4. Gluten-Free San Choy Bao (Tamari Swap)

Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and ensure your oyster/hoisin sauce is gluten-free (or omit).

See gluten-free tips

Seafood

5. Shrimp / Prawn Lettuce Wraps

Fast-cooking shrimp replace ground meat for a light, elegant version — brightened with lime, fish sauce, and cilantro. Great for summer dinners and entertaining.

Shrimp recipe

Flavor Boost

6. Teriyaki / Asian BBQ San Choy Bao

For crowd-pleasing flavor, toss the filling in a sticky teriyaki glaze or Korean BBQ-style sauce (gochujang + honey). Serve warm with extra sauce on the side — perfect for parties.

Teriyaki twist

Weight-Loss

7. Low-Calorie San Choy Bao (Weight-Loss Friendly)

Use extra-lean turkey or minced chicken, reduce oil, boost non-starchy veggies, and swap sugary sauces for vinegar + citrus. This version helps with calorie control while delivering flavor.

Low-cal recipe

Meal Prep

8. Meal-Prep Friendly San Choy Bao (Make-Ahead Filling)

Cook a double batch of filling, cool quickly, and store in airtight containers (refrigerate 3–4 days). Reheat and assemble in minutes — ideal for lunches, quick dinners, and high-protein meal plans.

Meal-prep tips

Quick swaps & recommended serving pairings

Quick Ingredient Swaps

Soy sauce → Tamari / Coconut aminos (gluten-free).
Carrots → Zucchini or mushrooms (keto-friendly).
Ground meat → Crumbled tofu / jackfruit (vegetarian/vegan).
Oyster sauce → Mushroom-based vegan oyster sauce (plant-based umami).

Which Variation Fits Your Goal?

Goal	Best Variation	Why
Lose weight / low-carb	Keto Pork	Very low net carbs; high fat & protein to support ketosis.
Meal prepping lunches	Meal-Prep Filling	Filling stores well and assembles quickly for on-the-go meals.
Family-friendly	Classic Chicken / Teriyaki	Milder flavors kids love; easily doubled for a crowd.
Plant-based / Vegan	Tofu & Mushroom	Meaty umami texture without animal products.

Recommended Pairings

Cauliflower rice or brown jasmine rice for a fuller meal.
Asian cucumber salad or quick pickles for a bright contrast.
Small bowls of dipping sauces: chili-garlic, tamarind glaze, or soy-sesame.

🧾 Nutrition & Health Benefits — San Choy Bao / San Choy Bow (Pork & Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps)

A nutrient-forward, low-carb Asian dinner option: high protein, moderate fat, and loaded with crunchy vegetables.

Quick take — Why this recipe is a smart choice

High protein: Ground pork supplies quality animal protein — ideal for muscle maintenance and balanced meals.
Low carb & gluten-free: Lettuce cups replace bread/tortillas — perfect for keto, low carb, and gluten-free diets.
Vegetable boost: Water chestnuts, carrots, and peppers add fiber, hydration, and crunch with minimal calories.
Customizable for health goals: Swap lean turkey or extra mushrooms for lower saturated fat or vegetarian versions.

Is this recipe for you?

Cook this if: you want a quick weeknight healthy dinner, low calorie family meal, or a shareable party appetizer that’s also gluten-free.
Pick another recipe if: you need a high-carb comfort dish (this one intentionally keeps carbs low).

Practical health benefits

Satiety & weight control: Protein and fiber increase fullness, which may help reduce total daily calories when used as part of a balanced eating plan.
Blood sugar friendly: Lower net carbs vs. rice/tortillas may produce smaller post-meal blood sugar spikes for many people.
Micronutrients: Vegetables contribute vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants that support immune and cellular health.

How to upgrade this recipe for your goals

To lower fat/saturated fat: use 93–97% lean ground pork or ground turkey, and reduce sesame oil to 1 tsp.
To increase fiber: add finely chopped shiitake mushrooms, shredded cabbage, or extra bell peppers.
To cut sodium: use low-sodium tamari or dilute soy sauce with a splash of water and add fresh lime for brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions — San Choy Bao

Is San Choy Bao healthy and low carb — good for weight loss?

Short answer: Yes — when served in lettuce cups, San Choy Bao (pork & water chestnut lettuce wraps) is a low carb, high protein meal option that fits many healthy eating plans (keto, low-carb, gluten-free, calorie-conscious).

Why it works: the recipe swaps a bun or tortilla for crisp lettuce, keeps carbs minimal, and uses lean ground pork (or ground turkey/chicken) for protein. For weight-loss or diabetic-friendly versions, reduce or replace higher-sugar sauces (hoisin) with tamari or light soy and increase veggies.

How long does the filling keep — can I meal prep or freeze it?

Store cooked pork filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, divide into meal-sized portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Meal-prep workflow: cook and cool the filling, dry-roast sesame seeds separately, wash & dry lettuce leaves and store them in a paper towel-lined container to keep them crisp. Reheat filling and assemble fresh to avoid soggy lettuce.

What lettuce is best for San Choy Bao — what creates the best crunch?

The best options are iceberg, butter lettuce (Boston), or romaine hearts. Iceberg gives maximum crunch and structure; butter lettuce offers a tender cup that folds well; romaine is great for a hearty wrap. Avoid very large floppy leaves — you want a cup shape that holds filling without tearing.

Chill leaves and pat completely dry. For party service, keep leaves separated and chilled on an ice bed so they stay crisp until assembly.

Can I make San Choy Bao vegetarian or vegan — best swaps?

Replace ground pork with any of the following: crumbled firm tofu, finely chopped king oyster mushrooms, tempeh, or a mix of lentils and chopped nuts for texture. Use tamari and mushroom-based umami sauces instead of oyster sauce to keep the flavor deep and savory.

Which sauces & pantry swaps keep it gluten-free and low-sugar?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce for gluten-free. Replace oyster or hoisin sauces with a mix of tamari + a touch of sugar-free sweetener or mushroom-based stir-fry sauce for umami. Swap rice wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar if needed. For keto versions, use a sugar alternative and avoid honey or sweet hoisin.

What are quick substitutions if I don’t have water chestnuts?

Great crunchy substitutes include: jicama, celery, diced apple (for a sweet crunch), or finely chopped bamboo shoots. Each swap shifts the flavor slightly—jicama is neutral and high-fiber, celery is savory, and apple adds sweetness (good for kids).

How can I scale this recipe for a party or catering?

Multiply the filling by 3–5x depending on guest count. Keep lettuce cups chilled separately and offer an assembly station with bowls of filling, garnishes (sesame seeds, sliced chilies, scallions), and dipping sauces (sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a light soy-lime dip).

For buffet service, present the filling hot in chafing dishes and replace leaves as needed to retain crunch.

Are there allergy-safe versions (nuts, shellfish)?

Yes. Avoid oyster sauce (contains shellfish) and swap for tamari or mushroom sauce. Check labels for sesame oil (some are cross-contaminated) and omit nuts if serving people with nut allergies. Use sunflower seed butter if you need a nut-like richness in a peanut-free alternative.

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