Duck Spring Rolls with Dipping Sauces
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Recipe Category: Lunch / Snacks
Servings: 6-8 spring rolls
Calories per Serving: 126.8
Description
These Duck Spring Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, incorporating a rich combination of tender duck, fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and sweet, tangy dipping sauces. Wrapped in chewy rice paper, these rolls make for a fun and interactive meal, perfect for a light summer dish or as an appetizer to impress your guests. The recipe allows for flexibility in the ingredients, letting you personalize the filling to suit your tastes, whether you prefer shrimp, pork, or tofu. Paired with two contrasting dipping sauces—one sweet and tangy, the other savory and spicy—this recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite. Whether you are preparing these spring rolls for a casual lunch or a dinner party, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sage leaves | 6 |
| Basil leaves | 6 |
| Cilantro leaves | 6 |
| Zucchini | 1, thinly sliced |
| Sweet potatoes | 1, peeled and julienned |
| Cooked duck | 6 oz, shredded |
| Rhubarb | 2-3 stalks, chopped |
| Orange zest | 1/4 tsp |
| Scallion | 1, thinly sliced |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Peanut butter | 1 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Fish sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Rice paper rounds | 6-8 |
| Rice vermicelli (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Bean threads (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 126.8 kcal |
| Fat | 2.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 1.1 mg |
| Sodium | 179.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 22.9 g |
| Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugar | 10.8 g |
| Protein | 2.8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rhubarb Cherry Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, water, and a dash of orange zest. Cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb becomes tender.
Use a hand blender to puree the sauce until smooth.
Transfer the sauce to a small bowl and garnish with finely chopped scallions. Set aside. -
Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, fish sauce, and a splash of water. Heat in the microwave for about 30 seconds, stirring to combine until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
Garnish with finely chopped peppers for an extra touch of flavor. Set aside. -
Soak the Rice Paper Wrappers
In a shallow dish, add warm water. Submerge each rice paper round one at a time into the water for about 10-20 seconds, or until the paper softens. Be careful not to leave it in the water too long, as it will become too soft and may tear.
Lay each softened rice paper wrapper on a clean surface like a cutting board or flat dish. -
Assemble the Spring Rolls
Once the rice paper is softened, arrange a few leaves of sage, basil, and cilantro in the center of the wrapper.
Add a few slices of zucchini and sweet potato, followed by the shredded cooked duck. If you’re using rice vermicelli or bean threads, add a small handful in the center as well.
Carefully fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll the wrapper from the bottom up, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a neat, secure roll.Tip: The rice paper is delicate when wet, so be gentle when rolling. You might tear a few wrappers during your first few rolls, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it!
-
Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice each spring roll in half diagonally. Arrange the rolls with the cut sides facing up for an attractive presentation.
Serve the rolls with the prepared rhubarb cherry sauce and peanut dipping sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations
- Additional Fillings: You can customize these spring rolls by adding your favorite vegetables or protein. Try swapping the duck for shrimp, grilled chicken, or even crispy fried tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Rice Vermicelli: For added texture, rice vermicelli is a great addition. It’s commonly used in traditional spring rolls and pairs well with the fresh herbs and tender duck.
- Bean Threads: If you don’t have rice vermicelli, bean threads (or cellophane noodles) make a great substitute and add an interesting texture to the spring rolls.
Conclusion
These Duck Spring Rolls with Dipping Sauces are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them an ideal choice for a summer lunch, snack, or light appetizer. The combination of fresh herbs, vegetables, and tender duck, all wrapped in chewy rice paper, makes for a fun and healthy dish that can easily be personalized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party, preparing a light meal for yourself, or making them as a family activity, these spring rolls are both delicious and interactive. Enjoy the refreshing taste of the rhubarb cherry and peanut dipping sauces as they perfectly complement the duck and other ingredients.
