Name: Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 7 – 14 sheets of 22cm/8.5″ round rice paper; 11 small cooked prawns/shrimp; 50g / 1.5 oz dried vermicelli noodles; 7 lettuce leaves; 14 mint leaves; 1 cup bean sprouts; 1 tbsp peanut butter; 2 tbsp Hoisin Sauce; 1 1/2 tbsp white vinegar (or lime juice); 1/3 cup milk (any fat %) (or water); 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 tsp crushed chilli, adjust to taste (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls), a dish that’s all at once fresh, vibrant, and wonderfully interactive! Delicately wrapped bundles of prawn, finely cut veggies, and tender vermicelli noodles come together in translucent rice paper, making these rolls not just a feast for the eyes but also for your taste buds. Paired with a rich peanut dipping sauce, each bite offers a fabulous contrast of crunch, chew, and herbaceous zing. If you’re after something light yet satisfying, and a true crowd-pleaser to share with friends and family, this recipe will instantly become a favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the greatest joys of making Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) is how each humble ingredient brings crucial flavor, texture, and color to the mix. You really don’t need a complicated shopping list—the magic lies in the harmonious combination.

Rice paper: Look for 22cm/8.5″ round sheets; they’re the classic “wrapper” that creates the signature see-through look and satisfying chew.
Cooked prawns/shrimp: Fresh, medium-sized prawns deliver the sweet, delicate seafood note that is iconic in these rolls—halve them for that appealing look.
Dried vermicelli noodles: These quick-cooking noodles add gentle substance and soak up sauces beautifully; soften just before rolling.
Lettuce leaves: Choose soft lettuces like Oak or Butter; they provide a crisp, cooling element and help keep the filling together.
Mint leaves: Just a couple per roll drops a hint of bright, herbal flavor that lifts the entire bite.
Bean sprouts: These add crunch and a mild, nutty flavor for essential texture contrast.
Peanut butter: Preferably smooth, this forms the rich base of the irresistible dipping sauce.
Hoisin sauce: A splash brings sweet and salty depth to your dipping experience.
White vinegar (or lime juice): This acidity sharpens the sauce, balancing every bite.
Milk (or water): Helps loosen your peanut sauce to just the right dippable texture.
Garlic: One fresh clove brings the necessary punch and aromatic warmth.
Chili paste (optional): Add to taste for extra spice; Samba oelek or any chili paste works here.

How to Make Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls)

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce

Start with the sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, vinegar (or lime juice), milk (or water), and minced garlic. Give it a quick mix—it won’t blend perfectly at first, but that’s okay! Microwave for about 30 seconds, then stir again until it smooths out into a luscious, glossy sauce. Taste and tweak: add chili for heat, more vinegar or lime for tang, or thin with more milk or water if needed. Set aside to cool while you prepare your Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls).

Step 2: Soften the Vermicelli Noodles

Toss the dried vermicelli noodles into a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for around 2 minutes, or just follow your package directions. Drain the noodles—they should be soft and springy, ready to roll.

Step 3: Prepare the Prawns and Veggies

Peel the cooked prawns or shrimp, then carefully slice each one in half lengthwise. This not only helps them fit nicely in your rolls but showcases their beautiful pink-and-white color against the rice paper. Remove any crunchy core from your lettuce leaves, and gather your mint leaves and bean sprouts.

Step 4: Assemble Lettuce Bundles

For easy rolling and extra crunch, wrap a small pinch of vermicelli noodles and a generous handful of bean sprouts tightly in a lettuce leaf, forming a bundle. Place it seam-side down to keep everything together. Repeat with the remaining filling ingredients.

Step 5: Dip and Layer the Rice Paper

Fill a large bowl with warm water. Gently dip one or two rice paper sheets (together if doubling up for strength) into the water, rotating as needed to wet the entire surface—it only takes about 2 seconds per section. They should go from rigid to pliable but not too soft; they’ll continue to soften on your board.

Step 6: Arrange Fillings and Roll

Lay the moistened rice paper (smooth side down) on a clean board. At the top, arrange three prawn halves with a mint leaf nestled between each—this creates that iconic look you see in restaurant rolls. Place your lettuce bundle in the center of the circle.

Step 7: Roll It Up

Fold in the left and right sides of the rice paper, then start rolling from the bottom, tucking everything in tightly but gently as you go. The rice paper is naturally sticky and will seal itself shut, locking in all that fresh goodness. Repeat until you’ve rolled all your Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls)!

How to Serve Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls)

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, a few extra mint leaves, or even thinly sliced chili on top of your platter. They not only make your Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) look elegant and inviting, but each garnish introduces a little extra flavor pop with every bite.

Side Dishes

These spring rolls are breezy on their own, but you can turn your meal into a true Vietnamese feast by pairing them with a simple cucumber salad, a warm bowl of pho, or a refreshing glass of iced jasmine tea. The versatility of Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) means they can be both an appetizer or a light main.

Creative Ways to Present

Lay your rolls on a long platter lined with lettuce leaves and scattering of herbs for a vibrant, healthy look. Or serve them “DIY-style” at the table, with each ingredient in a separate bowl—let everyone get in on the rolling action! This interactive style really turns any gathering into a hands-on party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls), press a damp paper towel over them and wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then pop in the fridge. This helps maintain the delicate texture of the rice paper and prevents it from drying out or turning rubbery. Best enjoyed within a day for optimal freshness!

Freezing

While it’s not generally recommended to freeze these fully assembled, if you must, do so by wrapping each roll individually in cling film and placing in an airtight container. The texture of the rice paper may change upon thawing, but the flavors will still shine through. For best results, freeze the fillings separately and assemble fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If chilled, allow them to rest on the counter for a bit before serving—this brings out the freshness of the herbs and prawns. Avoid microwaving, which can make the rice paper tough and chewy.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins in Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls)?

Absolutely! While prawns are traditional, feel free to use grilled chicken, tofu, pork, or even slices of scrambled egg for a vegetarian twist. The technique remains the same and you can get creative to suit any diet.

Why do my rice paper rolls keep tearing?

If your Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) are splitting, the rice paper may be soaked too long and become too delicate. Try dipping just until the sheets are pliable, and use two sheets together for extra security, especially when learning.

How do I keep the rice paper from sticking to my hands or the board?

A clean, damp tea towel laid out on your rolling surface helps prevent sticking. You can also lightly wet your hands before handling the rice paper. If things do stick, just roll with it—a little imperfection only adds to the homemade charm!

Is the peanut dipping sauce kid-friendly?

Yes! The base sauce is sweet and savory, perfect for little ones. Just leave out the chili paste, or add it to individual portions so everyone can customize the heat level to their liking.

How long ahead can I prepare Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls)?

For the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to assemble them up to 2 hours before eating. Keep them covered with a damp towel and wrapped tightly in the fridge until ready to serve. If you need to prep further in advance, store ingredients separately and roll just before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking freshness, flavor, and fun all bundled into one dish, look no further than Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls). They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd favorite. Give them a try for your next get-together—you’ll love seeing these little works of art disappear from the platter!

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 21 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 7–14 rolls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make fresh and delicious Vietnamese rice paper rolls, also known as spring rolls, filled with prawns, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, mint, and bean sprouts. These rolls are perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.

Instructions

Peanut Sauce: Combine the Peanut Dipping Sauce ingredients. Microwave for 30 seconds, mix until smooth. Adjust taste and thickness. Set aside.
Soak vermicelli noodles in warm water for 2 minutes, then drain.
Peel, devein, and halve prawns.
Prepare lettuce leaves by removing the core.
Make lettuce bundles with noodles and bean sprouts.
Soften rice papers in warm water.
Assemble rolls with prawns, mint, lettuce bundle, and roll tightly.
Serve with peanut dipping sauce.

Notes

Note 1: Adjust the number of rice paper sheets based on the size and quantity of rolls you want to make.
Note 2: Choose lettuce with soft leaves for easier rolling.
Note 3: Adjust the spiciness of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Note 4: Watch videos for helpful tips on preparing prawns and lettuce leaves.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Rolling
Cuisine: Vietnamese