Ideal as an appetizer or snack, fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls might look fussy, but they're ready in less than 30 minutes. These restaurant-quality shrimp spring rolls are one of my best make-ahead recipes.
To make the nuoc cham, in a small bowl, whisk together warm water and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Stir in garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili garlic sauce. Yield:about 1 cup.
To make the peanut sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, and garlic. Stir in warm water to thin to desired consistency. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Yield: About 1 cup.
To make the spring rolls:
Arrange all prepped ingredients to make the spring roll assembly easy and organized. Dampen a flat work surface with water (I usually dampen after every 2 to 3 rolls).
Fill a large bowl or a wide skillet with hot water. Working with 1 rice-paper at a time, dip the round in warm water for 1 second. Lay wrapper on the damp flat work surface.
On the bottom half of the moistened rice paper, add one lettuce leaf. Top with several strands of noodles and pieces of carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper. Top with fresh mint. Do not overstuff the rolls.
Add 3 halved shrimp pieces about 1/2 inch above the vegetables, cut-side up (pink/orange side facing down or out).
Starting at the bottom of the rice paper, begin to roll it upwards into a tight cylinder. Fold in the sides of the rice paper and continue to roll the rice paper and filling. Place the roll, seam side down, on a platter and cover with a damp kitchen towel.
Repeat with remaining rolls, dampening the work surface as needed if it looks dry. The rolls can be held at room temperature for several hours before serving.
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Notes
Lime juice: Or substitute 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar for the 2 tablespoons lime juice. The flavor will change, but it's still delicious.
Rice paper wrappers: These spring roll wrappers are made with rice and appear stiff when dry. Soaking them in water for just a moment makes them clear and pliable. Blue Dragon is a popular brand.
Cellophane noodles: Also known as vermicelli rice noodles, look for skinny varieties such as Angel Hair. A Taste of Thai is a popular brand.
Shrimp: To poach raw shrimp, combine shrimp, 2 cups cold water, and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until pink and firm to the touch, about 8 to 10 minutes. Plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking and drain well.
Yield: This recipe makes 12 spring rolls, enough for 6 servings, 2 rolls each.
Storage: Wrap individual spring rolls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days for best results. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.