Spring rolls are a delightful treat that have found their way into cuisines worldwide. Originating from Asia, these crispy, golden parcels are filled with a variety of fresh vegetables, eggs, and spices, offering a symphony of textures and flavors. What makes spring rolls so beloved is their versatility. You can adjust the filling to suit your preferences or dietary needs, and the accompanying dipping sauces elevate them to an entirely new level.

In this recipe, we’ll craft crispy vegetable spring rolls filled with a medley of cabbage, carrots, onions, and a hint of chili for a touch of heat. The spicy mayo dipping sauce is the perfect complement, providing a creamy and tangy contrast to the crispy rolls. Whether you’re preparing these as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Spring Rolls:

• 100g cabbage, washed and chopped
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 25g green onion, sliced into small pieces
• 20g red chili, cut into small pieces
• 70g carrot, chopped or grated
• 3 eggs
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• 1/6 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Rice paper

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp chili sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced green onion. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still have a slight crunch.
4. Add the chopped red chili, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs

1. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs.
2. Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the whisked eggs into the empty side.
3. Scramble the eggs gently, then mix them with the vegetables until fully combined.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Spring Rolls

1. Prepare a clean surface for rolling the spring rolls and have a shallow bowl of warm water ready.
2. Dip a piece of rice paper into the warm water for a few seconds until it becomes pliable. Place it on your work surface.
3. Add a spoonful of the vegetable and egg mixture to the center of the rice paper.
4. Fold the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to form a sealed spring roll.
5. Repeat with the remaining filling and rice papers.

Step 4: Cook the Spring Rolls

1. Heat a skillet with enough oil to shallow fry the spring rolls over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the spring rolls in the skillet, seam side down.
3. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the spring rolls and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of chili sauce. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Arrange the crispy spring rolls on a serving plate and serve them warm with the spicy mayo dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade spring rolls!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 10-12 spring rolls

Calories: ~120 kcal per spring roll

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Spring rolls have stood the test of time because of their adaptability and universal appeal. They are easy to customize, allowing you to experiment with different fillings such as tofu, shrimp, or mushrooms. Their crisp exterior and flavorful filling make them a satisfying treat for any occasion. Whether served as a snack, party appetizer, or a light meal, spring rolls offer a balance of taste and texture that never goes out of style.

The spicy mayo dipping sauce in this recipe adds a contemporary twist, pairing creamy and spicy flavors to create a harmonious contrast with the crispy rolls. This dish bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, making it suitable for all ages and palates.

Nutrition Facts (Per Spring Roll)

• Calories: ~120 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fiber: 2 g

FAQs

1. Can I make these spring rolls in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the spring rolls a few hours in advance. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent the rice paper from drying out.

2. Can I bake or air-fry the spring rolls instead of frying them?
Absolutely! For a healthier alternative, bake the spring rolls at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. You can also air-fry them at the same temperature for a similar amount of time.

3. What other dipping sauces can I use?
Apart from the spicy mayo, you can serve spring rolls with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or even peanut sauce for a different flavor profile.

Tips for Making Perfect Spring Rolls

1. Work Quickly with the Rice Paper:
   Once softened, rice paper can become sticky, so it’s important to work quickly and carefully when assembling the rolls.
2. Avoid Overfilling:
   Overfilling can cause the rice paper to tear. Use just enough filling to create a neat and secure roll.
3. Seal the Rolls Well:
   Ensure the edges of the rice paper are properly sealed to prevent the rolls from opening during frying.
4. Maintain the Oil Temperature:
   Keep the frying oil at a consistent medium heat. Too hot, and the rolls may burn; too cool, and they will absorb more oil, becoming greasy.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration:
Store leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Freezing:
You can freeze uncooked spring rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the frying or baking time.

Conclusion

Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls with Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce are a delicious fusion of textures and flavors. They offer the perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender, flavorful filling, with the dipping sauce adding a delightful kick. These rolls are versatile, easy to prepare, and make for a stunning presentation at any table. Whether you’re introducing someone to the world of spring rolls or revisiting this beloved classic, they are sure to be a hit.

The recipe’s simplicity and adaptability ensure that you can make it your own, customizing the filling and sauce to suit your taste. From casual family meals to festive gatherings, spring rolls never fail to impress. Try them today, and enjoy a timeless dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.