San choy bao

Method

1. Separate the lettuce leaves, then rinse and pat them dry. Place them on a plate and chill in the refrigerator until needed to keep them crisp.
2. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce and sesame oil.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan, then add the meat and garlic and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until the meat just changes colour – if you are using chicken, cook it for an extra minute.
4. Stir in the chilli (if using), the ginger and sugar, followed by the soy sauce mixture. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
5. Divide the mixture between the lettuce leaves and top with the carrot, bean sprouts and coriander leaves (if using). Alternatively, place all the ingredients on the table and get each person to build their own san choy bao. Serve immediately, with lime wedges if desired, and with lots of serviettes (napkins) – the dish can be messy to eat.