Spring Rolls Recipe

Spring Rolls are a popular Asian cuisine, known for their delicate wrappers filled with a medley of well-seasoned vegetables. This recipe provides a delightful blend of flavors, encapsulated in a crispy, golden brown shell. The filling comprises of napa cabbage, carrots, bamboo shoots, enhanced with soy, sesame oil and mirin.

Photos of Spring Rolls Recipe

While most of these ingredients are easily found, you might need to look a little for Mirin and Bamboo shoots. Mirin is a sweet rice wine integral for adding a slightly sweet flavor and sheen to the rolls. It's often present in the Asian section in supermarkets. Bamboo shoots contribute a nice crunch to the filling. They are usually canned and found in the canned vegetables section.

Spring Rolls Key Ingredients

Canola oil: This oil is light and doesn't influence the flavor of the spring rolls.

Napa cabbage: A type of Chinese cabbage, it adds volume and crunch to the filling.

Garlic: It gives a nice aroma and flavor.

Carrots: They add a sweet flavor and vibrant color.

Bamboo shoots: These give a distinctive crunch to the spring rolls.

Mirin: This sweet rice wine adds a subtle sweetness and gloss to the filling.

Soy sauce: It provides a savory, umami flavor.

Sesame oil: Its strong flavor enhances the overall taste.

Cornstarch: It helps seal the spring roll wrappers.

Spring roll wrappers: They are the casing for the filling.

One reader, Eleanora Mcgrath says:

The spring rolls recipe was a game-changer! The filling was flavorful and the wrappers turned out perfectly crispy. The instructions were easy to follow, and the end result was a hit with my family. I'll definitely be making these again!

Eleanora Mcgrath

Key Techniques for Making Spring Rolls

How to cook the filling: The napa cabbage, garlic, carrots, and bamboo shoots need to be cooked in a skillet until the liquid is almost evaporated, and then the mirin, soy sauce, and sesame oil are added. The filling should then be cooled completely before using.

How to wrap the spring rolls: Lay out the spring roll wrapper, brush the cornstarch slurry around the edges to moisten, and add about 2 tablespoons of filling in a long rectangle shape. Then, fold in the sides and roll the wrappers closed tightly.

How to fry the spring rolls: Heat 3 inches of oil in a Dutch oven to 325 degrees F and fry the spring rolls until golden brown, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

How To Make Spring Rolls

These vegetarian spring rolls are full of cabbage, carrots, bamboo shoots, and various spices. They’re crispy, light on carbs, and heavy on flavor.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupcanola oildivided
8cupsnapa cabbage,sliced thinly
2cloves garlic,minced
2carrots,sliced thinly
8ozbamboo shoots,sliced thinly
2tbspmirin
¼cupsoy sauce,low sodium
2tspsesame oil
2tbspcornstarch
24spring roll wrappers,(8 inch square)
canola oil,for frying
Nuoc Cham dipping sauce,for serving

Instructions

Add half the canola oil to a large heavy skillet on medium-high heat and add in the napa cabbage. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes while stirring until almost all the liquid it releases has cooked off.
Add in the garlic, carrots and bamboo shoots and cook for 1 minute while stirring before adding in the mirin, soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir again then let filling cool completely.
Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.
Lay out the spring roll wrapper, brush cornstarch slurry around the edges to moisten and add about 2 tablespoons of filling in a long rectangle shape, folding in from the sides and rolling the wrappers closed tightly.
Heat 3 inches of oil in a dutch oven to 325 degrees F and fry the spring rolls until golden brown. This takes about 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 943.82kcal
Fat: 42.02g
Saturated Fat: 3.51g
Trans Fat: 0.14g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.67g
Carbohydrates: 132.55g
Fiber: 9.19g
Sugar: 11.52g
Protein: 10.70g
Sodium: 2165.84mg
Calcium: 345.71mg
Potassium: 1659.78mg
Iron: 4.83mg
Vitamin A: 1134.88µg
Vitamin C: 135.07mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Making Spring Rolls

When frying the spring rolls, it's important to not overcrowd the pan. Adding too many at once can lower the oil's temperature, resulting in soggy and oil-soaked rolls. Instead, fry them in batches, giving each roll enough space to cook evenly. This will ensure your spring rolls are crispy and golden brown. Also, remember to adjust the heat as necessary to maintain the oil temperature.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spring Rolls

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and filling ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Organized workspace: Set up a clean and organized workspace with all the necessary ingredients and tools within reach to save time during the cooking process.

Double batch: Consider making a double batch of the spring roll filling and wrappers to have extra on hand for future use, saving time on preparation.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line for wrapping the spring rolls, making it more efficient to fill and roll multiple spring rolls at once.

Freeze for later: Make a large batch of spring rolls and freeze them for later use, saving time on future meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Spring Rolls Recipe

canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a suitable substitute for canola oil as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it ideal for frying and cooking.
napa cabbage - Substitute with bok choy: Bok choy is a close relative of napa cabbage and can be used as a substitute due to its similar texture and mild flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
carrots - Substitute with daikon radish: Daikon radish can be used as a substitute for carrots in spring rolls, offering a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor.
bamboo shoots - Substitute with water chestnuts: Water chestnuts can be used as a substitute for bamboo shoots, providing a similar crunchy texture and mild taste.
mirin - Substitute with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar: A mixture of rice vinegar and a small amount of sugar can be used as a substitute for mirin to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a type of soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for regular soy sauce, offering a similar umami-rich flavor.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil can be used as a substitute for sesame oil, providing a nutty flavor and high smoke point suitable for stir-frying.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken sauces and fillings in spring rolls.

Presentation Ideas for Serving Spring Rolls

Elevate the plating: Arrange the spring rolls in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are neatly aligned and presented with precision.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Garnish the plate with fresh cilantro and chili peppers to add pops of color and enhance the visual appeal.
Utilize negative space: Leave areas of the plate intentionally empty to create a balanced and visually striking presentation.
Add a touch of elegance: Place the spring rolls on a bed of edible flowers to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the spring rolls in a symmetrical pattern, creating a visually pleasing and harmonious presentation.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the shape and size of the spring rolls, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a small amount of sesame oil to create elegant drizzles on the plate, adding a touch of artistry to the presentation.
Highlight the dipping sauce: Serve the spring rolls with a vibrant dipping sauce in a small, complementary dish, adding an element of color and contrast to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Spring Rolls

Skillet: A large, heavy skillet is ideal for cooking the napa cabbage and other vegetables. It should be able to withstand medium-high heat and have enough surface area to cook the ingredients evenly.
Dutch oven: A Dutch oven is necessary for frying the spring rolls. It should be filled with about 3 inches of oil and heated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal frying results.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Spring Rolls

Once the spring rolls have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To keep the spring rolls crispy, place a sheet of paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spring rolls:
- Arrange the cooled spring rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the spring rolls are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen spring rolls to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen spring rolls can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat refrigerated spring rolls, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For frozen spring rolls, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. There's no need to thaw them before baking.
Alternatively, you can reheat the spring rolls in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for refrigerated ones, or 8-10 minutes for frozen ones, or until crispy and heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Spring Rolls

The best way to reheat leftover spring rolls is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the spring rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them lightly with some canola oil or spray with cooking spray to help crisp up the exterior. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're heated through and the wrapper is crispy again.
Another good option is to reheat the spring rolls in an air fryer if you have one. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the spring rolls in the basket, making sure they're not touching each other. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then shake the basket and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they're crispy and heated through.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the spring rolls in the microwave, but they won't be as crispy. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, then check if they're heated through. If not, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until they're hot.
For a quick and easy way to reheat just a few spring rolls, you can also pan-fry them. Heat a small amount of canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the spring rolls and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they're crispy and heated through.
Whichever method you choose, be careful not to overheat the spring rolls or the wrapper may become tough and chewy. The key is to reheat them until they're just hot and crispy, but not so long that they dry out or become overcooked. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, or soy sauce.

Interesting Fact About Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a popular dish in many Asian countries and are often served during the Spring Festival in China. They are believed to symbolize wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to gold bars.

Is Making Spring Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

The spring rolls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as napa cabbage, carrots, and bamboo shoots, are affordable and readily available. The use of simple pantry staples like soy sauce and sesame oil adds flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Are Spring Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spring rolls recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The main concerns are:

The recipe calls for deep frying the spring rolls in canola oil, which is high in calories and can contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess.
Soy sauce is high in sodium, and the recipe uses a significant amount (¼ cup), which may be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
The recipe doesn't include a significant amount of protein, which is essential for a balanced meal.

However, there are also some healthy elements in the recipe:

Napa cabbage, carrots, and bamboo shoots provide a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The use of sesame oil adds a dose of healthy fats and flavor.
The recipe is relatively low in sugar, with only 2 tbsp of mirin.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of deep frying, try baking the spring rolls in the oven at a high temperature (around 400°F) until crispy. This will significantly reduce the amount of oil needed.
Reduce the amount of soy sauce used, or opt for a low-sodium variety. You can also replace some of the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which is lower in sodium and contains amino acids.
Add a lean protein source to the filling, such as ground chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to make the spring rolls more balanced and satisfying.
Experiment with different vegetables in the filling, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or bean sprouts, to increase the nutrient density of the dish.
Serve the spring rolls with a side of fresh herbs, such as mint or cilantro, and a light dipping sauce made with rice vinegar, lime juice, and a touch of honey for added flavor without excessive calories.

Editor's Opinion on This Spring Roll Recipe

The spring rolls recipe is well-balanced and flavorful, with a delightful combination of napa cabbage, carrots, and bamboo shoots. The cooking process is well-explained, and the use of mirin and sesame oil adds depth to the filling. However, I would suggest adding a dipping sauce to complement the rolls and enhance the overall experience. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs or protein options such as shrimp or tofu could provide more variety. Overall, this recipe has great potential and can be customized to suit individual preferences.

Enhance Your Spring Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Salsa: Create a refreshing and tangy mango salsa to complement the crispy spring rolls. The sweetness of the mango will balance out the savory flavors of the filling.

Garlic Butter Green Beans: Whip up a batch of garlic butter green beans for a simple yet flavorful side dish. The crisp-tender texture of the green beans will provide a nice contrast to the crunchy spring rolls.

Coconut Rice: Prepare fragrant coconut rice to serve alongside the spring rolls. The creamy and slightly sweet rice will add a tropical twist to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Spring Rolls

Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli: This classic Chinese dish is a quick and easy recipe that combines tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This vibrant and flavorful dish features juicy chicken breasts topped with a fresh and tangy mango salsa.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in this comforting and creamy soup that combines ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream for a satisfying meal.

Banana Bread Pudding: Transform overripe bananas into a decadent dessert with this rich and creamy bread pudding recipe that's perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Spring Rolls

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich alfredo sauce. Serve it over fettuccine for a classic and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry using thinly sliced beef and a colorful array of vegetables. Toss everything in a savory sauce and serve over steamed rice for a satisfying and nutritious dinner.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture of the mousse paired with the lightness of the whipped cream creates a perfect balance of flavors and a decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy goodness of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious layer of fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce. The combination of the rich, velvety cheesecake filling and the sweet, juicy strawberries creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.

Why trust this Spring Rolls Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted favorite, crafted by a seasoned chef with a passion for Asian cuisine. The use of fresh napa cabbage, bamboo shoots, and sesame oil ensures an authentic and flavorful experience. The careful selection of ingredients, such as mirin and soy sauce, guarantees an exquisite taste. The step-by-step instructions and precise measurements make it accessible for all levels of home cooks. With its crispy and golden brown finish, these spring rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, promising a satisfying crunch and burst of savory flavors.

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FAQ:

How can I make the spring roll wrappers at home?

Making spring roll wrappers at home is possible, but it requires a bit of skill and patience. You can find recipes online that use simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt. However, store-bought wrappers are a convenient option if you're short on time.

Can I bake the spring rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the spring rolls instead of frying them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the rolls on a baking sheet, and brush them with a little oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Can I make the filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can save you time when you're ready to assemble and cook the spring rolls.

Can I freeze the spring rolls before frying them?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled spring rolls on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

What dipping sauce pairs well with these spring rolls?

A classic sweet chili sauce or a simple soy dipping sauce with a splash of rice vinegar and a sprinkle of sesame seeds are great options to complement the flavors of the spring rolls. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite pairing!