Turkey San Choi Bao is one of my favourite dishes to serve at health retreats. Lean turkey is naturally rich in tryptophan, an essential amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin—key compounds involved in supporting mood, relaxation and healthy sleep.
At retreat, we affectionately refer to the second day as “Teary Tuesday”. It’s often when guests begin to feel the effects of reducing sugar, caffeine and processed foods, and mild detox symptoms can appear. While it’s certainly not all headaches and tears, nourishing meals rich in quality protein, colourful vegetables and mood-supporting nutrients can help ease the transition and leave guests feeling energised and satisfied.
This healthy Turkey San Choi Bao reflects my Food as Medicine philosophy—where every ingredient is chosen not only for its flavour but also for its nutritional purpose. Combining vibrant Asian flavours with crisp lettuce cups, wholesome vegetables and lean turkey, this recipe proves that food can be both deeply nourishing and incredibly delicious. It’s simple, fresh and designed to support wellbeing without compromising on taste.
PrintTurkey San Choi Bao
- Total Time0 hours
- YieldServes 8
- DietGluten Free
Fresh, vibrant and packed with flavour, these Turkey San Choi Bao are a lighter take on the Chinese classic. Lean turkey provides quality protein and mood-supporting tryptophan, while crisp lettuce cups, colourful vegetables and fragrant herbs reflect my Food as Medicine philosophy—creating meals that nourish the body without compromising on taste. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or relaxed entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa extremely well, drain and then place in a medium saucepan. Cover with water and slowly simmer until all of the water has absorbed and the quinoa husk hast started to come away from the seed so the quinoa becomes translucent. Remove from heat, cover with a clean tea towel underneath the lid. Allow the heat of the cooked quinoa to create steam so as to finish the cooking method. Set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat the macadamia oil in a large wok over a high heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger and carrots and stir fry for about 5 minutes or until the carrots are par-cooked. Remove all ingredients from the work with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Reheat the wok if required and add the turkey mince, stir frying over a high heat until lightly browned and cooked through. Add Chinese five spice, coriander, cumin and Sichuan pepper.
- Reduce heat and fold through water chestnuts, chopped chillies, tamari, maple syrup and spring onions. Add lime juice. Check seasoning, spoon into individual ramekins. Garnish with radish, spring onions or coriander leaves.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 mins
- Category: Turkey
- Method: Stir fry
- Cuisine: Modern Chinese
Zucchini avocado terrine
Here’s a polished description to accompany your recipe:
A fresh, vibrant take on a classic terrine, this Zucchini & Avocado Terrine celebrates the simplicity of just a handful of seasonal ingredients. Finely diced zucchini and creamy avocado are gently folded together with fresh lime juice, red chilli and coriander, creating a dish that is light, zesty and full of texture.
The zucchini provides a delicate crunch, while the avocado adds buttery richness. Lime brightens every bite, coriander lends a fragrant herbal note, and the chilli delivers a gentle warmth without overpowering the fresh flavours. The result is a colourful, naturally gluten-free and plant-based dish that’s perfect as a light entrée, canapé, or served alongside grilled seafood or barbecued meats.
Rich in fibre, vitamin C, folate and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, this refreshing terrine is as nourishing as it is elegant, making it ideal for entertaining or relaxed summer dining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, gently fold all ingredients until combined. Be careful not to break up the ingredients.
- Carefully spoon into a lightly 5cm ring mould then transfer to individual serving plates.
You must be logged in to post a comment.