Kenz
Culinary Explorer
have some veggies!
Ingredients:
- 12 rice paper wrappers (available at most Asian grocery stores)
- 1 cup cooked rice noodles (or vermicelli)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (such as Romaine or butter lettuce)
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup julienned cucumbers
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1 cup fresh herbs (such as cilantro, mint, or basil)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin out the sauce)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
- 1-2 tbsp chopped peanuts (optional, for added texture)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Wash and prepare all the vegetables and herbs.
- Slice the avocado if using.
- Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers:
- Fill a shallow dish or a large plate with warm water.
- Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable. Be careful not to soak it too long, as it can become too soft and tear easily.
- Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface, like a cutting board.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- On the lower third of the rice paper wrapper, place a small amount of rice noodles.
- Layer on some shredded lettuce, julienned carrots, cucumbers, bean sprouts, red bell pepper, and herbs. Add a few slices of avocado if using.
- Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a neat roll.
- Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, and water until smooth.
- Adjust the consistency with more water if needed. Add rice vinegar for extra tang, if desired.
- Stir in chopped peanuts for added texture, if you like.
- Serve:
- Place the finished rolls on a serving platter.
- Serve with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips:
- Freshness: Keep the rolls covered with a damp cloth if youβre making them ahead of time to prevent them from drying out.
- Customization: Feel free to add other veggies like sliced radishes, mushrooms, or avocado. Tofu or tempeh can also be added for extra protein.
- Dipping Sauce Variations: You can use a store-bought peanut sauce or a simple soy sauce and rice vinegar mix if you prefer something quicker.