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Fresh Spring Rolls Recipe

Fresh Spring Rolls Recipe

5.1 from 22 reviews

Fresh Spring Rolls are a light and healthy appetizer or snack featuring a colorful mix of crisp vegetables, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and optional crispy tofu, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Served with a flavorful peanut dipping sauce, these rolls are perfect for a refreshing, vegan-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Crispy Tofu (optional)

  • 1 14-ounce block extra firm tofu, drained and pressed for 2030 minutes
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon granulated garlic (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or any cooking oil

Spring Roll Filling

  • 8 8-inch rice wrappers
  • 2 ounces dry vermicelli noodles
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil for drizzling on noodles (optional)
  • 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and julienned
  • 2 Persian cucumbers, julienned
  • 1.5 cups finely shredded purple cabbage
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and julienned
  • 8 large butter lettuce leaves or green leaf lettuce, hard stems trimmed
  • ⅔ cup fresh mixed herbs such as cilantro, basil, and mint, chopped or whole leaves
  • 23 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 batch peanut dipping sauce (or preferred dipping sauce)

Recommended Equipment

  • 1 Medium Pot
  • 1 Large Non-Stick Skillet

Instructions

  1. Cook the Vermicelli Noodles: Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Optionally drizzle with toasted sesame oil and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Tofu Coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, sea salt, and granulated garlic until well combined. Cut the pressed tofu block into four rectangular ½-inch thick pieces and coat each piece evenly with the cornstarch mixture.
  3. Fry the Tofu: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add avocado oil and when shimmering, carefully place tofu pieces in the pan, leaving space between each. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and slice into ½-inch thick strips. Set aside.
  4. Soften Rice Wrappers: Fill a shallow dish or pie plate with warm water. Dip one rice wrapper at a time into the water for about 10 seconds until soft and pliable. Lay the softened wrapper on a slightly damp clean surface. If it isn’t softened enough, dampen your hands and moist the wrapper a little more, then let it rest for 5 seconds.
  5. Add the Fillings: Place one butter lettuce leaf on the bottom third of the rice wrapper nearest to you. Add a moderate amount of vermicelli noodles, sliced vegetables, herbs, green onions, and optionally tofu strips on top of the lettuce. Be careful not to overfill.
  6. Roll the Spring Roll: Begin rolling the rice wrapper over the lettuce and fillings once, then tuck in the sides tightly and continue rolling until fully wrapped. Place the finished roll seam-side down on a tray. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings, spacing them 1-2 inches apart to prevent sticking.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: For ease of eating, cut the spring rolls in half. Serve with peanut dipping sauce or your preferred dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Tofu can be prepared in various ways; store-bought seasoned baked tofu works well or simply season uncooked tofu with salt and pepper.
  • Press tofu for 20-30 minutes using paper towels and a heavy object or tofu press to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy texture when fried.
  • Use soft, pliable whole lettuce leaves with trimmed stems for easy rolling and preventing rice paper tearing; shredded lettuce can be a substitute.
  • If rice wrappers stick to your work surface, moisten the area again or use a dampened lint-free towel as your workspace.
  • Refer to accompanying photos and video for step-by-step guidance, extra tips, and ingredient substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: fresh spring rolls, vegan spring rolls, crispy tofu rolls, rice paper rolls, peanut dipping sauce, healthy appetizers, Vietnamese spring rolls, vegan appetizer