Thai Fresh Rolls

Posted in Asian Recipes, Quick and Easy Recipes
Thai Fresh Rolls
Thai Fresh Rolls, also known as Summer Rolls, are a quintessential appetizer or snack that combines the fresh flavors of herbs, vegetables, and proteins wrapped in a delicate rice paper. Perfect for hot summer days, parties, or as a healthy snack, these rolls are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition and taste. Follow this simple recipe to create your own Thai Fresh Rolls at home, bringing a touch of Southeast Asian cuisine right to your table.

Ingredients

For the rolls:

  • 12 rice paper sheets
  • 1 bunch mint
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 1 bunch basil leaves
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 1 cup julienned cucumber
  • 1 lb cooked shrimp
  • 1 package vermicelli rice noodles

For the dipping sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon tamari sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • warm water to adjust consistency
  • crushed peanuts, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by cooking the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, then cool them under running water. Prep your vegetables and herbs by washing and cutting them into thin strips. Cook your protein choice accordingly and set aside.

  2. Soften Rice Paper: Fill a large dish with warm water. Dip a sheet of rice paper in the water for about 15-20 seconds until it's just softening but still slightly firm and lay it flat on a clean, damp cloth.

  3. Assemble Rolls: On the bottom third of the rice paper, lay a small handful of noodles, your choice of herbs, vegetables, lettuce, and protein. Do not overfill.

  4. Roll Up: Fold in the sides of the rice paper, then tightly roll it up, starting from the bottom. The rice paper will stick to itself, sealing the roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

  5. Make Dipping Sauce: Mix hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Slowly add warm water until you reach your desired consistency. Top with crushed peanuts.

  6. Serve: Cut the rolls in half, if desired, and serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Fresh, Cool, and Flexible

Thai fresh rolls are light but satisfying because every bite has soft rice paper, herbs, crisp vegetables, noodles, and dipping sauce. They are also flexible: once the components are ready, everyone can build the version they like.

Tips and Variations

  • Dip rice paper just until pliable; it keeps softening as you roll.
  • Do not overfill or the rolls will tear.
  • Add shrimp, tofu, chicken, avocado, mango, or extra herbs.
  • Serve with peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or nuoc cham.
  • Keep assembled rolls covered with a damp towel and eat them the same day.

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 2 rolls
  • Servings Per Recipe: 4
  • Calories: 260

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 8g (10% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 1g (5% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
  • Sodium: 620mg (27% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 39g (14% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Vitamin A: 260mcg (29% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 28mg (31% DV)
  • Calcium: 90mg (7% DV)
  • iron: 2mg (11% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients and preparation.