Spring Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Rice Paper Wrappers:
1 package (about 10-12) round rice paper wrappers (8-10 inches in diameter)
For the Filling:
1 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles, rinsed and drained
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 cup bean sprouts
1/2 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (or cooked chicken, pork, or tofu)
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
1 avocado, thinly sliced
For the Dipping Sauce (Peanut Sauce):
1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon water (or more, to thin)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, water, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked vermicelli rice noodles, shredded carrots, shredded red cabbage, bean sprouts, cooked shrimp (or chicken/pork/tofu), mint leaves, cilantro leaves, basil leaves, and roasted peanuts (if using). Gently toss to combine.
3. Assemble the Spring Rolls: Fill a large, shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds, until softened but not falling apart. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean, dry surface.
4. Place Filling: Arrange a small amount of the filling (about 1/4 cup) horizontally across the center of the rice paper wrapper, leaving about 1 inch of space on either side. Add a few slices of avocado on top of the filling.
5. Roll the Spring Roll: Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and tightly roll up from the bottom to the top, like a burrito.
6. Repeat: Repeat steps 3-5 with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling.
7. Serve: Serve the spring rolls immediately with the peanut dipping sauce. You can garnish with extra chopped peanuts, cilantro, or lime wedges if desired.