How to Make Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls for Dinner

Vietnamese rice paper rolls, also known as gỏi cuốn, are a delightful and healthy dish that can be prepared for dinner. These fresh spring rolls are filled with an array of ingredients, making them a versatile choice for any meal. Here’s how to make Vietnamese rice paper rolls from scratch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Vietnamese rice paper rolls, gather the following ingredients:

  • Rice paper wrappers
  • Cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu (sliced thinly)
  • Rice vermicelli noodles (cooked and cooled)
  • Fresh herbs (such as mint, cilantro, and basil)
  • Vegetables (like lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers, sliced into thin strips)
  • Dipping sauce (such as hoisin or peanut sauce)

Steps to Prepare Rice Paper Rolls

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start rolling, make sure all your ingredients are prepped. Slice your proteins, wash and dry the herbs, and prepare the vegetables. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions and set aside to cool.

2. Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a large bowl with warm water. Take a rice paper wrapper and dip it into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Carefully remove it from the water and lay it flat on a clean surface.

3. Fill the Rice Paper

Place a small handful of vermicelli noodles in the center of the rice paper. Then layer on your choice of protein—shrimp, chicken, or tofu—followed by a few slices of vegetables and fresh herbs. Be careful not to overfill, or it will be difficult to roll.

4. Roll It Up

Begin by folding the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling. Next, fold in the sides and then continue to roll it tightly until you reach the top. Repeat this process for the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling.

5. Serve with Dipping Sauce

Once you have rolled all your rice paper rolls, arrange them on a plate and serve with your choice of dipping sauce. Hoisin sauce combined with peanut sauce is a popular option, but you can also try a simple nuoc cham, a sweet and tangy Vietnamese dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Rice Paper Rolls

  • Work quickly; rice paper can become sticky if left out for too long.
  • Experiment with different fillings to customize your rice paper rolls to your taste.
  • You can add additional flavors such as sriracha or garlic for a spice kick.

Making Vietnamese rice paper rolls is not only easy but also a fun way to enjoy fresh ingredients. They are perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer. Enjoy the process of rolling and experimenting with different flavors!