Lao Crispy Seaweed Rolls

Ingredients

• 50g (1.8 oz) dried freshwater green algae (kaipen) 50g (1.8 oz) dried freshwater green algae (kaipen)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish) 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the dried freshwater green algae (kaipen) in water for 5 minutes until softened. Drain and pat dry.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Dip each softened kaipen sheet into the seasoning blend, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the coated kaipen sheets into the hot oil and fry until crispy and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar to make the dipping sauce.
7. 7.
   Serve the Crispy Seaweed Rolls hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, alongside the tangy dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Freshwater green algae (kaipen) — Ensure that the kaipen is thoroughly soaked and drained before coating it with the seasoning blend. This will help achieve a crispy texture during frying.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of chili powder to the seasoning blend.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic powder and onion powder.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce for a unique twist.
• To make the rolls even crispier, double fry them by frying them once, letting them cool, and then frying them again until golden brown.
• Store any leftover Crispy Seaweed Rolls in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Seaweed Rolls as an appetizer or snack. They are best enjoyed when hot and crispy, accompanied by the tangy dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Crispy Seaweed Rolls on a platter, stacking them in an appealing manner. Place a small bowl of the dipping sauce in the center of the platter and garnish the rolls with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for an attractive presentation.