Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Dipping Sauces
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
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
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!
