Vegetable rolls are a versatile and healthy dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light main course. You can make them fresh and raw (like spring rolls) or cooked (like baked or fried rolls). Below is a recipe for fresh vegetable spring rolls with a delicious dipping sauce:
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup lettuce or spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Rice noodles (optional, cooked and cooled)
For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
Instructions:
Preparing the Rolls:
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Prep Vegetables: Wash and cut all your vegetables into thin, even slices. Set them aside in separate piles so they’re easy to access when assembling the rolls.
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Prepare Rice Paper: Fill a large shallow dish or bowl with warm water. Working one at a time, dip each rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 15-20 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Be careful not to let it sit too long, or it will tear easily.
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Assemble the Rolls: Lay the softened rice paper on a clean, damp surface (a damp towel works well to prevent sticking). In the center of the rice paper, place a small handful of your prepared vegetables, herbs, and rice noodles (if using). Don’t overfill the wrapper.
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Roll It Up: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.
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Cut and Serve: You can serve the rolls whole or cut them in half diagonally for a nice presentation.
Preparing the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
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Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and honey until smooth.
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Adjust Consistency: Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick but still dippable.
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Serve: Pour the dipping sauce into a small bowl or dish for serving alongside the vegetable rolls.
Tips:
- Variations: You can add tofu, shrimp, or cooked chicken for a protein boost. For a crunchy texture, include ingredients like bean sprouts or thinly sliced radishes.
- Storage: If you’re making these ahead of time, store the rolls in a container with a damp paper towel on top to keep them from drying out. They are best enjoyed fresh.
- Dipping Sauce Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of peanut sauce, try a soy-ginger sauce or a sweet chili sauce.
Enjoy your fresh vegetable rolls—a light, colorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
