Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Dipping Sauces Introduction Welcome to a culinary journey to the vibrant flavors of Vietnam. Vietnamese Summer Rolls, also known as Gỏi Cuốn, are a delightful staple of Vietnamese cuisine, embodying freshness and simplicity. Packed with fresh vegetables, succulent shrimp, and herby goodness wrapped in rice paper, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Accompanied by aromatic dipping sauces, they offer a burst of flavors with every bite. Prepared traditionally at home and enjoyed across the globe, these summer rolls are as much a visual delight as they are a gastronomic one. Join me in crafting this refreshing appetizer, perfect for lively gatherings or a delightful meal at home. Kitchen Equipment Required Chef’s Knife Cutting Board Mixing Bowls Measuring Cups and Spoons Medium Saucepan Ladle Large Shallow Dish Cooking Time Total estimated time: 45 minutes Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Dipping Sauces Recipe Ingredients 150g (6 oz) rice vermicelli noodles 12 rice paper wrappers 24 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 tbsp (15ml) fish sauce 30g (1/4 cup) fresh cilantro leaves 30g (1/4 cup) fresh mint leaves 100g (2 cups) lettuce leaves, thinly sliced 1 medium cucumber (200g), julienned 1 medium carrot (100g), julienned 60g (1/4 cup) crushed roasted peanuts Peanut Dipping Sauce 60g (1/4 cup) creamy peanut butter 30ml (2 tbsp) soy sauce 30ml (2 tbsp) hoisin sauce 1 garlic clove, minced 15ml (1 tbsp) fresh lime juice 120ml (1/2 cup) water Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce 60ml (1/4 cup) fish sauce 30ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar 30ml (2 tbsp) fresh lime juice 1 tbsp (15g) sugar 1 garlic clove, minced 1 small bird’s eye chili, minced (optional) 60ml (1/4 cup) warm water Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Shrimp Bring a saucepan of water to a boil, then add the rice vermicelli noodles and cook according to package instructions (about 4-5 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water, and set aside. In the same saucepan, boil the shrimp with a pinch of salt until pink and opaque, about 3 minutes. Drain and cool in cold water. Cut each shrimp in half lengthwise. Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Sauces Peanut Dipping Sauce In a small mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, lime juice, and water. Whisk until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional water if needed. Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce In another bowl, combine the fish sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, chili (if using), and warm water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Step 3: Assemble the Rolls Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Immerse one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 5 seconds, then lay it out on a damp cutting board. In the center of the wrapper, place 2 pieces of shrimp, some cilantro, mint, lettuce, cucumber, carrot, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. Top with a small portion of noodles. Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Conclusion You have now crafted a classic Vietnamese appetizer packed with freshness and flavors. These Summer Rolls are impressive servings for parties and perfect for light meals. The vibrant hues of the fresh ingredients symbolize health and wellness while the contrasting dipping sauces enrich every bite. Encapsulating the philosophy of Vietnamese cuisine, this dish offers a harmonious balance of ingredients, textures, and tastes. We invite you to explore and share the joy these rolls bring. Happy rolling!
