Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Introduction

History

Vietnamese Spring Rolls, also known as Gỏi cuốn, have been a staple in Vietnamese cuisine for centuries. Traditionally made with pork, shrimp, herbs, and vegetables wrapped in rice paper, these rolls are a favorite dish for many Vietnamese families and are often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Notes

1. Rolls may be made up to 8 hours ahead. Place in single layer on plastic wrap-lined pan, cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until needed.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use very hot water to soften the spring roll wrappers quickly.

- Be sure to blot the softened wrappers on a towel to remove excess water before filling.

- Roll the spring rolls tightly to prevent them from falling apart.

- Serve the spring rolls immediately after assembling to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spring rolls with the strawberry dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Soften the spring roll wrappers in very hot water for a few seconds until pliable.

- Roll the spring rolls tightly to prevent them from falling apart.

- Serve the spring rolls immediately after assembling to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cooked chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.

- Substitute the mint leaves with Thai basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling ingredients ahead of time and assemble the spring rolls just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the spring rolls on a platter and garnish with extra herbs and sliced strawberries for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Vietnamese Spring Rolls with a side of steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently steam the spring rolls for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 18g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 12g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

These spring rolls are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Iron.

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and fish sauce.

Summary

These Vietnamese Spring Rolls are a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in protein. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Vietnamese Spring Rolls are a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light meal or snack. With a flavorful filling of shrimp, herbs, and vegetables wrapped in rice paper, these rolls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve them with the strawberry dipping sauce for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day and I was browsing through a local farmers market, picking up fresh ingredients for my next culinary creation. As I made my way through the bustling market, the vibrant colors and array of fresh produce caught my eye. And that's when I saw her - an elderly Vietnamese woman, skillfully rolling up delicate spring rolls with such grace and precision.

I was mesmerized by the sight of these translucent rolls, filled with colorful vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tender shrimp. The woman's hands moved with such fluidity and speed, it was as if she was performing a culinary dance. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these Vietnamese spring rolls.

I approached the woman and introduced myself, explaining my love for cooking and my desire to learn her recipe. She smiled warmly and invited me to watch as she demonstrated the art of making spring rolls. I watched in awe as she soaked the rice paper in warm water, carefully added the fillings, and rolled them up into perfect little bundles.

As she worked, she shared stories of her homeland in Vietnam, the rich culinary traditions that had been passed down through generations, and the importance of fresh, seasonal ingredients. I listened intently, soaking up every word and savoring the flavors of her culture through the spring rolls she so expertly prepared.

After she finished rolling up a batch of spring rolls, she handed me one to try. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a tropical paradise - the crunch of the vegetables, the burst of freshness from the herbs, and the succulent shrimp all mingling together in perfect harmony. It was a sensory experience unlike any other, and I knew I had to master this recipe.

The woman saw the delight on my face and offered to teach me how to make Vietnamese spring rolls. She invited me to her home the following week, where she would guide me through the process step by step. I eagerly accepted her offer, grateful for the opportunity to learn from a master.

When I arrived at her home, she welcomed me with open arms and led me to her kitchen. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. She had prepared all the ingredients in advance, neatly arranged on the countertop like a painter's palette.

We began by soaking the rice paper in warm water until it softened, then carefully layering on the fillings - crisp lettuce, crunchy cucumber, vibrant bell peppers, fragrant mint, cilantro, and basil, and plump shrimp marinated in a savory sauce. With her gentle guidance, I rolled up my first spring roll, trying to emulate her precise technique.

It wasn't easy at first - the rice paper tore, the fillings spilled out, and my rolls were far from perfect. But the woman reassured me, reminding me that practice makes perfect and that the key to great cooking is patience and perseverance.

As the afternoon turned into evening, we rolled up dozens of spring rolls, chatting and laughing as we worked. I learned about her life in Vietnam, the challenges she had faced, and the joy she found in sharing her culinary heritage with others. It was a magical experience, bonding over food and stories, bridging the gap between cultures through the universal language of cooking.

When we finally finished, we sat down to enjoy our creations together. The spring rolls were a symphony of flavors and textures - light and refreshing, yet satisfying and full of depth. We dipped them in a tangy peanut sauce, savoring each bite and relishing the camaraderie that had blossomed between us.

As I bid farewell to the woman that evening, she handed me a handwritten recipe for Vietnamese spring rolls, complete with detailed instructions and tips for success. It was a precious gift, a tangible reminder of the time we had shared and the knowledge she had imparted to me.

I returned home that night, my heart full and my mind buzzing with inspiration. I couldn't wait to recreate the magic of the Vietnamese spring rolls in my own kitchen, sharing them with my family and friends and passing on the tradition to future generations.

And so, armed with the woman's recipe and the memories of our time together, I embarked on my own culinary journey, weaving the flavors of Vietnam into my repertoire and honoring the legacy of the spring rolls that had captured my heart. From that day on, Vietnamese spring rolls became a beloved staple in my kitchen, a symbol of the connections forged through food and the joy of learning from others. And every time I roll up a batch of these delicate bundles, I am reminded of the kind-hearted woman who taught me not just a recipe, but a lesson in love, generosity, and the power of sharing a meal with others.

Categories

| Cilantro Recipes | Cucumber Recipes | Mint Recipes | Rice Vinegar Recipes | Seasoned Rice Vinegar Recipes | Sesame Oil Recipes | Shrimp Recipes | Strawberry Recipes | Vietnamese Meat Dishes | Vietnamese Recipes |

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