These Vegetarian Rice Paper Rolls are filled with spicy tofu, fresh veggies, and vermicelli noodles, making them a light and refreshing option for lunch or dinner. These summer rolls are a veggie twist on the beloved Vietnamese rice paper rolls, and they are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
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Yield:
- 6 Rice Paper Rolls
Total Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 6 rice paper wrappers
- 50g vermicelli rice noodles, cooked according to packet instructions
- 100g Sriracha Tofu (see separate recipe)
- 1 carrot, julienned
- ⅛ red cabbage, thinly shredded
- ½ English cucumber, julienned
- ½ red capsicum/bell pepper, julienned
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro
Optional (to serve):
- Peanut Hoisin Dipping Sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Work Area:
- Place a damp tea towel or dishcloth onto a clean surface.
- Fill a bowl with warm water.
- Soften the Rice Paper Wrappers:
- Dip one rice paper wrapper in the warm water for about 20 seconds or until softened.
- Lay the softened wrapper on top of the damp tea towel.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Pile your fillings (spicy tofu, vermicelli noodles, carrot, red cabbage, cucumber, red capsicum, and cilantro) in the middle bottom of the wrapper. Be careful not to overload.
- Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the fillings, then fold in the sides, and roll it up tightly like an envelope.
- Set the roll aside.
- Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
- Serve:
- Serve the rice paper rolls with peanut hoisin dipping sauce for dipping.
Notes:
- Sriracha Tofu: The pan-fried Sriracha Tofu used in this recipe can be made ahead of time. You’ll only need half the recipe to make these rolls, so use the remaining tofu in other dishes throughout the week or make a double batch of rolls!
- Handling Rice Paper Wrappers: Rice paper wrappers are delicate. If you find small rips or tears during the wrapping process, don’t worry. Once rolled up tightly, the imperfections won’t matter.
- Lighter Version: You can make these rolls without the spicy tofu if you prefer an even easier and lighter version.
- Storage: These rolls are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use different vegetables in the rice paper rolls?
- Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like avocado, spinach, or bell peppers to customize your rolls.
- What if my rice paper tears while rolling?
- It’s common for rice paper wrappers to tear during rolling, especially if they’re overfilled. Simply continue rolling, as the wrapper will usually hold together once tightly wrapped.
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
- While these rolls are best eaten fresh, you can prepare them a few hours ahead and store them in an airtight container with damp paper towels to keep them from drying out.
- How can I keep the rolls from sticking together?
- To prevent sticking, store the rolls with a small piece of damp parchment paper or lettuce leaves between each roll.
- Can I substitute the Sriracha Tofu with another protein?
- Yes, you can use other proteins like grilled tempeh, chickpeas, or even marinated mushrooms as a substitute.
- What dipping sauces work well with these rolls?
- Peanut hoisin sauce is a classic, but you can also try soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a simple mix of soy sauce and lime juice.
- How do I keep the rice paper rolls fresh for lunch?
- If packing these for lunch, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper to keep them from sticking together and drying out.
- Can I freeze the rice paper rolls?
- Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the rice paper wrapper may change upon thawing, becoming too chewy or brittle.
- What can I do with leftover rice paper wrappers?
- Leftover rice paper wrappers can be used to make spring rolls, crispy fried rolls, or as a wrap for various fillings.
- Are these rolls gluten-free?
- Yes, these rice paper rolls are naturally gluten-free, but make sure the dipping sauce you use is gluten-free as well.
Enjoy these refreshing and delicious Vegetarian Rice Paper Rolls for a light meal or snack!