Fresh Chinese Spring Rolls

Recipe by The FruitGuys

Try your hand at homemade spring rolls with this easy recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these rolls are packed with vibrant vegetables and herbs.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups green cabbage (regular, Napa, or Savoy), finely shredded
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• 1–2 cups mixed raw vegetables (bean sprouts, snow peas, sweet peppers, etc.), thinly sliced 
• 1 cup shiitake or other mushrooms, rinsed and sliced
• 3–4 green onions or ¼ cup scallions, finely chopped
• Fresh ginger, minced (optional, but recommended for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 handful of fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil, etc.)
• 1 package spring roll wrappers (dried rice wrappers)

PREPARATION

1. Sauté Mushrooms: Begin by sautéing the sliced mushrooms in a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat until soft, about 3–5 minutes.
2. Make Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the chopped green onions, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to create a flavorful dressing.
3. Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the warm mushrooms with the array of sliced veggies. Avoid adding the herbs and ginger at this stage to keep their flavors fresh.
4. Prepare Wrappers: Fill a large, shallow dish with hot water. Soak each wrapper individually for 15–30 seconds until it’s soft and pliable.
5. Start Assembly: Lay out the softened wrappers and place 2–3 tablespoons of the vegetable mix in a horizontal line across each wrapper.
6. Add Toppings: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a pinch of minced ginger (if using) for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Roll Spring Rolls: To assemble, fold the bottom edge of the wrapper upwards to meet the top edge, then fold in the sides and gently press to seal. Finally, roll the tube of filling up tightly towards the top edge.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish each roll with a sprig of fresh herbs and serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce.

Serves 3–4. Prep time, 15–20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use different vegetables in the spring rolls?
   Yes, you can customize the vegetable mix! Bell peppers, cucumbers, and radishes make excellent additions.
2. Is it necessary to use sesame oil in the dressing?
   Sesame oil adds a distinct flavor, but if you can’t find it or aren’t a fan, you can substitute another mild-flavored oil. Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also mimic the flavor.
3. How do I prevent the spring roll wrappers from tearing?
   Handle the wrappers gently and make sure they’re moist (but not too soft!) when rolling. If they tear, double wrapping with another softened wrapper can help.