📝 I. Ingredient List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Lettuce | 1 head (about 300g) | Butterhead or iceberg lettuce for crispiness |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Oyster sauce | 20g | Main seasoning |
| Light soy sauce | 10g | For umami |
| Sugar | 5g | Balances saltiness |
| Cooking oil | 10g | For blanching and sautéing |
| Water | 20ml | For sauce |
| Starch | 3g | Optional, for thickening sauce |
| Salt | A pinch | Optional, for blanching to retain green color |
👨🍳 II. Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
- Prepare lettuce: Separate leaves and rinse thoroughly under water, especially the back of leaves where dirt may hide. Pat dry with paper towels or drain to avoid oil splatter later.
- Mince garlic: Peel and finely mince 3 cloves of garlic.
- Mix sauce: In a small bowl, combine 20g oyster sauce, 10g light soy sauce, 5g sugar, and optional 3g starch. Add 20ml water and stir until sugar dissolves. Set aside. Pre-mixing ensures even flavor.
Step 2: Blanch Lettuce
- Bring water to a boil in a pot (enough to submerge lettuce). Add a pinch of salt and a few drops of oil to help retain vibrant green color and texture.
- Place lettuce in boiling water and gently stir with chopsticks to ensure even heating.
- Blanch briefly (10-15 seconds) until leaves turn bright green and slightly soft. Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
- Remove immediately and plunge into ice water to stop cooking and maintain crispness. Drain well and arrange on a plate.
Step 3: Make & Pour Sauce
- Heat about 5-10g oil in a pan.
- When oil is hot (with slight ripples), reduce to medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté quickly until fragrant (20-30 seconds). Avoid burning to prevent bitterness.
- Pour pre-mixed sauce into the pan and heat over medium-low heat.
- Stir constantly until sauce bubbles and thickens slightly (about 30 seconds).
- Drizzle the thickened sauce evenly over the drained lettuce.
- For garnish, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions.
Step 4: Serve
Enjoy immediately for the best crisp texture and flavor.
