Rice paper rolls
They are a refreshing and healthy appetizer or light meal, and are perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. They are also relatively easy to make at home, and can be customized with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
- 12 8-inch rice paper wrappers
- 1/2 cabeça (head) of romaine lettuce, leaves separated
- 8 oz. cooked, thin rice vermicelli noodles
- 1 cucumber, thinly julienned
- 1 carrot, thinly julienned
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
- 12 cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
- 1/2 lb. cooked, shredded chicken or pork (optional)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions:
- Prepare the dipping sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, brown sugar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare a large bowl of warm water.
- Assemble the rolls: Have all your fillings prepped and laid out in separate bowls or plates for easy assembly. Dip a single rice paper wrapper into the warm water for a few seconds, just until softened. Lay it flat on a plate.
- Arrange the fillings: Place a few romaine lettuce leaves on the bottom third of the wrapper. Add a small handful of rice noodles, followed by some cucumber, carrot, and a few herb leaves. If using shrimp or cooked meat, add a piece or two on top of the vegetables.
- Roll the spring roll: Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling. Tightly roll the spring roll upwards, tucking in the sides as you go to create a compact roll. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.
- Serve: Serve immediately with the peanut sauce for dipping.
Tips:
- If the rice paper wrappers become too dry or stiff, simply dip them in water again for a few seconds.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the shrimp and chicken/pork and add additional vegetables like shredded bell peppers or bean sprouts.
- You can also use other dipping sauces, such as nuoc cham (a fish sauce-based sauce).
- Rice paper rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
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