Savory Ground Pork Lettuce Wraps

Combine 1/2 cup of water and granulated sugar in a small microwave-safe container. Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to dissolve the sugar, resulting in a smooth mixture. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, ketchup, lemon juice, and sesame oil; blend until the dipping sauce is thoroughly combined. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate, allowing it to chill for about 30 minutes.

Combine dry mustard powder with a few drops of water. Mix in the remaining water until you achieve a consistency similar to hot mustard.

Whisk 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of rice vinegar in a small bowl to create a stir-fry sauce.

Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the pork; cook and stir until it's browned, taking about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, water chestnuts, mushrooms, green onions, and garlic; sauté until the flavors meld together, approximately 2 minutes. Pour in the stir-fry sauce; stir to coat the pork mixture evenly, taking around 3-4 minutes.

Remove the lettuce stem and wash it thoroughly. Discard the outer leaf, then carefully peel off the whole leaves and slice them in half lengthwise. Arrange the lettuce on a plate lined with paper towels.

Scoop the dipping sauce into small bowls or ramekins. Mix in the hot mustard and red chile paste to your desired level of spiciness. Spoon the pork filling into lettuce halves and roll up; top or dip the wraps with dipping sauce.