Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup rice noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint or cilantro leaves
- 4-6 lettuce leaves
Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Oil for frying (about 1/2 cup, vegetable or canola oil)
Wrapping
- 8 rice paper wrappers
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables and herbs: Gather all vegetables and herbs. Slice the carrot, cucumber, and bell peppers into thin strips (julienne style) for easy rolling and a crisp texture just before assembly.
- Soften the rice paper wrappers: Dip one rice paper in warm water for about 10-15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable but not too floppy, then lay it flat on a clean surface.
- Assemble the spring rolls: Place two tablespoons of rice noodles, a handful of the julienned vegetables, fresh herbs, and a piece of lettuce near one edge of the softened rice paper. Fold in the sides of the rice paper and roll tightly to enclose all fillings securely.
- Heat oil for frying: Pour about 1/2 cup of vegetable or canola oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking, around 350°F if using a thermometer.
- Fry the spring rolls: Place the rolls seam side down in the hot oil carefully. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning gently for even cooking. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip them without breaking.
- Drain excess oil and serve: Remove the spring rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot immediately with soy sauce mixed with fresh lime juice for dipping.
Notes
- Be careful not to soak the rice paper wrappers too long or they may tear easily when rolling.
- Use fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for authentic flavor and freshness.
- Customize filling by adding cooked shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken if desired.
- Maintain medium heat while frying to ensure the rolls crisp up without burning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; leftover rolls can become soggy.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Gluten Free