Vegetarian Spring Rolls

Ingredients

While the original Chinese spring rolls often contain meat or seafood, this vegetarian version replaces those ingredients with an array of colorful vegetables. The flavors remain vibrant and the texture satisfying, making it a perfect choice for those following a vegetarian diet. 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) julienned carrots 1 cup (150g) julienned carrots
• 1 cup (150g) julienned bell peppers (assorted colors) 1 cup (150g) julienned bell peppers (assorted colors)
• 1 cup (150g) julienned cucumber 1 cup (150g) julienned cucumber
• 1 cup (150g) julienned purple cabbage 1 cup (150g) julienned purple cabbage
• 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup (25g) fresh cilantro leaves 1/2 cup (25g) fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup (25g) fresh mint leaves 1/2 cup (25g) fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup (25g) fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup (25g) fresh basil 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) sesame oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) sriracha sauce (optional) 1 tablespoon (15ml) sriracha sauce (optional)
• 1/4 cup (30g) crushed peanuts (for garnish) 1/4 cup (30g) crushed peanuts (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 27g, 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, and sriracha sauce (if using). Set aside.
2. 2.
   Prepare a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until it softens.
3. 3.
   Place the softened rice paper wrapper on a clean surface. Arrange a small amount of each vegetable, cilantro, mint, and basil leaves in the center of the wrapper.
4. 4.
   Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling completely.
5. 5.
   Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
6. 6.
   Serve the spring rolls with the prepared dipping sauce and garnish with crushed peanuts.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice paper wrappers — Ensure that the water used for softening the wrappers is warm, but not too hot, to prevent them from becoming too sticky or tearing.
• Bean sprouts — Rinse the bean sprouts thoroughly and pat them dry before using to remove excess moisture.
• Crushed peanuts — Use unsalted peanuts for a healthier option, and crush them just before garnishing to maintain their freshness.

Tips & Tricks

• To add more flavor, marinate the julienned vegetables in the dipping sauce for 10-15 minutes before assembling the spring rolls.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of sriracha sauce in the dipping sauce.
• Serve the spring rolls immediately after assembling to maintain their crispness.
• For a variation, you can add cooked rice noodles or tofu as additional fillings.
• If you don't have rice paper wrappers, you can use lettuce leaves as a substitute for a refreshing twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Spring Rolls as an appetizer or light lunch. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be served alongside the dipping sauce and a side of crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the spring rolls on a platter, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, and serve with the dipping sauce in a small bowl. For an elegant touch, you can also add a few fresh herb leaves on top of the spring rolls.