What Is The Difference Between Summer Rolls And Spring Rolls?

The Difference Between Summer Rolls and Spring Rolls

When it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, two popular dishes that often cause confusion are summer rolls and spring rolls. While they may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences that set them apart. Let’s take a closer look at the distinctions between these two delicious and refreshing dishes.

Ingredients

One of the main differences between summer rolls and spring rolls lies in their ingredients.

• Spring Rolls: Spring rolls are typically made with a crispy wrapper that is filled with ingredients such as cooked pork, shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and various vegetables. They are then deep-fried until golden and crispy.
• Summer Rolls: On the other hand, summer rolls are made with a soft, translucent rice paper wrapper and filled with fresh ingredients such as shrimp, herbs, vermicelli noodles, and lettuce. They are not fried and are served cold, making them a perfect choice for a light and refreshing appetizer.

Preparation

Another notable difference between summer rolls and spring rolls is the way they are prepared.

• Spring Rolls: Spring rolls require cooking the filling ingredients before they are wrapped in the spring roll wrapper and deep-fried. This cooking process gives spring rolls their crispy texture and savory flavor.
• Summer Rolls: Summer rolls, on the other hand, do not require any cooking. The ingredients are simply arranged on a damp rice paper wrapper and rolled up, creating a beautiful and colorful presentation.

Dipping Sauce

Both summer rolls and spring rolls are typically served with a dipping sauce, but the type of sauce can vary between the two.

• Spring Rolls: Spring rolls are often accompanied by a savory dipping sauce, such as a hoisin-based sauce or a sweet and sour dipping sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to the crispy rolls.
• Summer Rolls: Summer rolls are traditionally served with a light and tangy dipping sauce, such as a hoisin-peanut sauce or a nuoc cham dipping sauce, which complements the fresh and delicate flavors of the rolls.

Conclusion

While summer rolls and spring rolls may share some similarities, such as their use of fresh ingredients and wrappers, the differences in their ingredients, preparation, and accompanying sauces make each dish unique in its own right. Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy and indulgent spring roll or a light and refreshing summer roll, both options offer a delightful culinary experience that showcases the diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Next time you’re at a Vietnamese restaurant or preparing a homemade meal, keep these distinctions in mind as you decide between summer rolls and spring rolls. Regardless of your choice, you’re in for a treat!