Thai-style Spring Rolls

Ingredients

While the Chinese version of spring rolls typically use a thicker wrapper and are often deep-fried, Thai-style spring rolls are made with a thinner rice paper wrapper and are usually served fresh or lightly fried. The filling in Thai spring rolls also tends to be more herbaceous and includes ingredients like Thai basil, cilantro, and lemongrass, giving them a distinct Thai flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Spring Rolls, so you can check it out.

• 12 rice paper wrappers 12 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup (150g) cooked rice vermicelli noodles 1 cup (150g) cooked rice vermicelli noodles
• 1 cup (150g) shredded carrots 1 cup (150g) shredded carrots
• 1 cup (150g) thinly sliced cucumber 1 cup (150g) thinly sliced cucumber
• 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup (25g) fresh Thai basil leaves 1/2 cup (25g) fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1/2 cup (25g) fresh cilantro leaves 1/2 cup (25g) fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh mint leaves 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar 2 tablespoons (30ml) rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) fish sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) grated ginger 1 teaspoon (5g) grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying (optional) Vegetable oil, for frying (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories: 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 2g (0.3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (8g sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, fish sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. 2.
   Prepare a large bowl of warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until it softens. Place the wrapper on a clean, damp kitchen towel.
3. 3.
   In the center of the wrapper, layer a small amount of cooked rice vermicelli noodles, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, bean sprouts, Thai basil leaves, cilantro leaves, and mint leaves.
4. 4.
   Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling completely. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
5. 5.
   If desired, heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the spring rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Alternatively, you can serve them fresh without frying.
6. 6.
   Serve the Thai-style spring rolls with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice paper wrappers — Make sure to dip them in warm water just until they soften, as they can become too sticky if soaked for too long.
• Thai basil — Use fresh Thai basil leaves for an authentic Thai flavor. If unavailable, regular basil can be used as a substitute.
• Fish sauce — If following a vegan diet, omit the fish sauce or replace it with a vegan fish sauce alternative.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent the rice paper wrappers from sticking together, place a damp kitchen towel between each layer.
• Customize the filling by adding cooked shrimp, tofu, or sliced chicken for added protein.
• For a refreshing twist, serve the spring rolls with a side of sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce.
• If you prefer a lighter version, skip the frying step and serve the spring rolls fresh.
• Make sure to chop the herbs and vegetables into thin, uniform strips for easy rolling.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-style spring rolls as an appetizer or light lunch. They are best enjoyed fresh or lightly fried, accompanied by the tangy dipping sauce.

Presentation advice

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