Crispy Vietnamese Vegetarian Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce

Vietnamese Style Vegetarian Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Embark on a culinary adventure with these vibrant Vietnamese Style Vegetarian Spring Rolls, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy peanut dipping sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Bursting with fresh vegetables and the satisfying texture of tofu or paneer, these rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy and delightful appetizer. The simplicity of the ingredients and the quick preparation make these spring rolls an ideal choice for a light dinner or a festive gathering, showcasing the beauty of Vietnamese cuisine in a vegetarian format.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings

• Servings: 2 (can be doubled or halved as needed)

Cuisine

• Cuisine: Vietnamese
• Course: Appetizer
• Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

1. Prep the Fresh Ingredients:
   Begin by washing and thoroughly cleaning the coriander and mint leaves. Pluck the mint leaves from the stems, discarding the stems, and roughly chop the coriander. Next, julienne the cucumber, carrot, and red bell pepper into thin strips.

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2. Marinate the Tofu or Paneer:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the julienned tofu or paneer with 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes, and salt to taste (if using). Allow the mixture to marinate for about 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
   While the tofu or paneer is marinating, prepare the peanut dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of red chili sauce or Sriracha, and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice. Adjust the chili sauce and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences. Gradually whisk in 2 to 3 tablespoons of warm water until you achieve your desired dipping consistency. Garnish the sauce with crushed roasted peanuts and set it aside for serving.

4. Cook the Tofu or Paneer:
   Heat 1 teaspoon of sunflower oil in a small nonstick saucepan over high heat. Add the marinated tofu or paneer and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to break the pieces. This quick high-heat stir-fry will impart a smoky flavor to the tofu or paneer. Once done, remove from heat and allow it to cool.

5. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
   To assemble the rolls, work with one rice paper sheet at a time. Soften the rice paper according to the package instructions, usually by dipping it in warm water for 20 to 25 seconds until it becomes pliable. Place the softened sheet on a flat plate or chopping board.

   In the center of the wet rice paper, layer a few strips of julienned carrot, bell pepper, cucumber, and a small tablespoon of chopped coriander and mint leaves. Then, add a few strips of the stir-fried marinated tofu or paneer, being cautious not to overfill, as this will make rolling difficult.

6. Roll and Seal:
   Bring the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then starting from the bottom, roll tightly to enclose the filling, similar to rolling a burrito. Seal the edges securely; the moist rice paper will stick together easily. Continue this process with the remaining rice paper sheets. As you work, keep the assembled rolls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

7. Serve:
   Once all the spring rolls are assembled, serve them alongside the prepared peanut dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer or light meal. These spring rolls are also delicious served with a hearty soup, such as Fennel Turmeric Walnut Soup with Apple and Raw Mango or Cream of Mushroom & Spring Onion Soup. Alternatively, they can be paired with tomato sauce or enjoyed as part of a larger spread of appetizers.

Conclusion

These Vietnamese Style Vegetarian Spring Rolls not only embody the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs but also deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. The creamy peanut dipping sauce provides a perfect contrast, enhancing the overall experience of this delectable dish. Ideal for sharing or enjoying solo, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed on a casual evening, these spring rolls bring the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine right to your table. Enjoy the burst of freshness, the explosion of flavors, and the joy of cooking with loved ones!