Authentic Thai Fresh Rolls: Aromatic Herbs & a Fiery Peanut Kick!
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
10-12 sheets of rice paper (22cm or 8.5 inch diameter)
4 oz (115g) rice vermicelli noodles
1 cup (70g) shredded carrots
1 cup (100g) thinly sliced cucumber
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup (30g) fresh basil leaves (Thai basil if possible)
1 cup (30g) fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup (15g) fresh cilantro sprigs
Optional: Cooked, peeled shrimp (halal) or pan-fried tofu strips
For the Spicy Peanut Kick Sauce:
1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
3 tablespoons (45ml) soy sauce (or tamari)
2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon (15g) honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
1 teaspoon (5ml) Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
1 clove garlic, minced
2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml) hot water, to thin
Directions:
1. Prepare Fillings: Cook rice vermicelli according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water and drain. Prepare all vegetables and herbs: shred carrots, slice cucumber and bell pepper, and pick herb leaves. Prepare shrimp or tofu if using.
2. Make Peanut Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey/maple syrup, rice vinegar, Sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), and minced garlic. Gradually add hot water, whisking until the sauce is smooth and reaches desired consistency. Taste and adjust spice or sweetness.
3. Assemble Rolls: Fill a shallow dish (larger than rice paper) with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet in the water for 15-20 seconds until soft and pliable. Lay flat on a damp, clean surface.
4. Layer & Roll: On the lower third of the rice paper, place a small amount of noodles, carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, basil, mint, cilantro, and protein (if using). Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll up tightly and neatly.
5. Repeat: Continue with remaining ingredients. Keep finished rolls covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
6. Serve: Serve immediately with the spicy peanut dipping sauce.
Recipe Information:
Preparation Time: 35 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes (noodles) | Total Time: 40 minutes | Calories per Serving: Approx. 160-200 per roll (varies with protein) | Number of Servings: 5-6 (2 rolls each)