Croatian-style Spring Rolls

Ingredients

While the Chinese version of spring rolls typically includes ingredients like soy sauce and bean sprouts, the Croatian adaptation incorporates local flavors such as olive oil and Mediterranean herbs. The filling is also adjusted to include Croatian vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. We alse have the original recipe for Spring Rolls, so you can check it out.

• 10 rice paper wrappers 10 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup (240ml) olive oil 1 cup (240ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (150g) carrots, julienned 1 cup (150g) carrots, julienned
• 1 cup (150g) bell peppers, julienned 1 cup (150g) bell peppers, julienned
• 1 cup (150g) zucchini, julienned 1 cup (150g) zucchini, julienned
• 1 cup (150g) cabbage, thinly sliced 1 cup (150g) cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (50g) fresh basil leaves 1 cup (50g) fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup (50g) fresh mint leaves 1 cup (50g) fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup (50g) fresh cilantro leaves 1 cup (50g) fresh cilantro leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for about 10 seconds until they become pliable.
2. 2.
   Place the soaked wrapper on a clean surface and add a small amount of each vegetable filling in the center.
3. 3.
   Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll tightly from bottom to top, sealing the edges with a bit of water.
4. 4.
   Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. 5.
   Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
6. 6.
   Fry the spring rolls until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. 7.
   Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
8. 8.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Serve the Croatian-style Spring Rolls with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice paper wrappers — Soak them in warm water for just the right amount of time to ensure they are pliable but not too soft.
• Fresh herbs — Gently wash and pat dry the herbs before using them to enhance their flavors.
• Olive oil — Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich and authentic Croatian taste.
• Vegetables — Ensure the vegetables are thinly sliced or julienned for easy rolling.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, marinate the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and Croatian herbs before filling the spring rolls.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces such as Croatian ajvar or a tangy yogurt-based sauce.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the spring rolls in the oven instead of frying them.
• Serve the spring rolls immediately after cooking to maintain their crispiness.
• Customize the filling by adding other Croatian vegetables like eggplant or Swiss chard.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style Spring Rolls as an appetizer or a light lunch. They are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the spring rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve them alongside the dipping sauce for an inviting presentation.