How to Make Vietnamese Vegan Spring Rolls
Vietnamese vegan spring rolls, also known as "gỏi cuốn," are a refreshing and healthy dish that are perfect for any occasion. These delightful rolls are filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and rice noodles, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make your own Vietnamese vegan spring rolls at home.
Ingredients
To make Vietnamese vegan spring rolls, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 10-12 rice paper sheets
- 1 cup of cooked rice noodles
- 1 cup of julienned carrots
- 1 cup of cucumber, cut into thin strips
- 1 cup of bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of lettuce leaves, torn into pieces
- 1 cup of fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- For the dipping sauce: 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and let them cool. Meanwhile, wash and julienne your vegetables — carrots, cucumber, and bell pepper. Prepare the lettuce leaves and chop the fresh herbs.
Step 2: Soak the Rice Paper
Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Take a rice paper sheet and dip it into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Carefully remove it from the water and place it on a clean, flat surface.
Step 3: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Lay a small handful of rice noodles in the center of the rice paper. On top of the noodles, add a few sticks of carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper. Place a couple of lettuce leaves and a few sprigs of mint, basil, and cilantro on top.
To roll, fold the sides of the rice paper inwards over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up, like a burrito. Make sure to tuck in the filling as you roll to keep everything secure. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, peanut butter, maple syrup, and rice vinegar until well combined. You can adjust the ingredients according to your taste, adding more sweetness or saltiness as desired.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the finished spring rolls on a plate and serve with the dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with additional herbs if desired. Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese vegan spring rolls as a light meal or a perfect appetizer!
Tips for Perfect Spring Rolls
- Keep the assembled spring rolls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- You can customize your spring rolls by adding other ingredients like avocado, tofu, or any favorite vegetables.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce for a unique flavor.
Making Vietnamese vegan spring rolls is a simple and rewarding process. They are not only delicious but also versatile and healthy, making them an excellent addition to your plant-based meal options. Enjoy your culinary adventure!