Start by placing the peanuts in a small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook them for about three minutes or until they are lightly browned, shaking the pan frequently to prevent burning. This step caramelizes the nuts, enhancing their flavor. Once they’re toasted, remove the pan from heat and set the peanuts aside.
In a small bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, cider vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, dark sesame oil, crushed red pepper, and garlic. Stir well with a whisk to ensure everything is mixed together nicely. This sauce is the heart of your wraps, providing a sweet and spicy kick!
In a medium bowl, mix together two tablespoons of the toasted peanuts, the cabbage, water chestnuts, and the chicken. Once combined, pour the sauce over the mixture. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated with the sauce. This step is crucial as it melds all the flavors into a delicious filling.
Now, take the leaves of Bibb lettuce and prepare them as your wrap base. Spoon about one-third cup of the chicken salad in the center of each lettuce leaf. The amount can be adjusted depending on how full you like your wraps.
To finish, sprinkle each wrapped lettuce with the remaining one tablespoon of peanuts. This adds an extra crunch and is visually appealing. Serve the wraps immediately while they are fresh and crisp.
