Gỏi Cuốn – Fresh Spring Rolls

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Gỏi Cuốn – Fresh Spring Rolls

For me, Gỏi Cuốn represents the *feeling* of Vietnamese food – lightness, freshness, and a vibrant energy. The beauty of these is in their simplicity; each ingredient contributes to the overall harmony. It's a dish that feels both rustic and refined, like a perfect stroll through a bustling market.

Let’s dive in! This recipe is for about 8-10 spring rolls – perfect for a weeknight treat or a casual gathering.

Ingredients:

  • Rice Paper Wraps (Bánh Báp): 10-12 sheets
  • Shrimp (Gân): 8-10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Rice Noodles (Mì Quảng): 1/2 lb, thin rice noodles (about 1/4 inch wide)
  • Lettuce (Rau): 1 head of Romaine lettuce, washed and torn
  • Cucumber (Cà Quarters): 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
  • Carrot (Cà Rốt): 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • Bean Sprouts (Mيش): 1 cup fresh bean sprouts, washed and trimmed
  • Mint Leaves (Húng Quế): 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, washed and chopped
  • Cilantro (Hành Lá): 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Dips (Dipping Sauce):
    • Nuoc Cham: 3 tablespoons fish sauce, 3 tablespoons lime juice, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 cup warm water
    • Chili Sauce (optional): 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or Sriracha

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: Gently pound the shrimp with a meat mallet to an even thickness.
  3. Assemble the Spring Rolls: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 5-7 seconds, until it becomes pliable. Carefully lay the wrapper on a clean surface.
  4. Add Ingredients: Arrange the lettuce, cucumber, carrot, bean sprouts, mint, cilantro, and shrimp in a horizontal row across the center of the wrapper.
  5. Roll it Up: Fold the sides of the wrapper inward, then tightly roll from the bottom up, like a burrito.
  6. Repeat: Continue with the remaining wrappers and ingredients.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations: Don't overfill the spring rolls! A little space is essential for them to fold neatly. For a bit more flavor, add a drizzle of chili oil after rolling. And don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and vegetables!

Enjoy!

Kolbeigh van Keuken – Chef & Food Enthusiast.

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