VIETNAMESE SPRING ROLLS

August 9, 2024

GENOISE CLASSIC / SPONGE CAKE / STRAWBERRY CAKE

Giới thiệu

August 9, 2024 1:53pm

This time, I’m sharing a recipe and method that helps make spring rolls the crispiest and longest-lasting. I’ll also share how I store spring rolls so they don’t stick together when frozen. 😝

Fun fact:
Vietnamese spring rolls, known as "gỏi cuốn," have a fascinating history and cultural significance:

Healthy Tradition: Unlike fried spring rolls, gỏi cuốn are typically fresh, made with rice paper, shrimp, pork, fresh vegetables, and herbs. This reflects the Vietnamese emphasis on balance and healthy eating.
Symbol of Harmony: The rolls are said to symbolize the harmony of opposites—hot and cold, soft and crunchy, sweet and savory—reflecting the yin-yang philosophy deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture.
DIY Dining: In Vietnam, it's common to see families and friends gather around a table, each person rolling their own spring rolls. This communal activity strengthens social bonds and adds a personal touch to the meal.

These rolls are not only delicious but also a representation of Vietnam's rich culinary traditions! 😍

Do you know:
1. Wood Ear Mushroom: Wood ear mushrooms, also known as Auricularia auricula, are a type of edible fungus often used in Asian cuisine. They are low in calories and fat, but rich in fiber, iron, and vitamin B2. They are also known for their high content of polysaccharides, which are thought to have various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Historically, wood ear mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, primarily to increase fluid secretion and circulation. However, they should be consumed in moderation as they can interfere with blood clotting due to their high content of adenosine.

2. Glass Noodles (Miến in Vietnam): Glass noodles, also known as cellophane noodles or miến in Vietnam, are made from starch (like mung bean starch, potato starch, or tapioca) and water. They are low in fat and high in carbohydrates. They are also gluten-free, making them a popular choice for those with gluten intolerance. However, they are low in fiber, protein, and nutrients compared to other types of noodles. Glass noodles have been a part of Asian cuisine for centuries, particularly in dishes like stir-fries, soups, and spring rolls.

3. Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng in Vietnam): Rice paper, or bánh tráng in Vietnam, is a thin, translucent edible paper made from rice flour, water, and salt. It is low in calories and fat, and gluten-free. However, it is also low in fiber and protein. Rice paper has been used in Vietnamese cuisine for centuries, most notably in dishes like spring rolls. While it is a healthier alternative to other types of wrappers due to its low calorie and fat content, it should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Further advice for weigh twatchers (like me! 😝):
Nutritionally, the content can vary based on the ingredients used. However, a typical Vietnamese spring roll is estimated to contain around 100-150 calories. They can be a good source of protein (from the meat) and provide some vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
However, as they are deep-fried, they can be high in fat, particularly if they are not drained properly after frying. This could potentially lead to weight gain if consumed in excess.
For weight watchers or those trying to maintain a healthy diet, it's important to consider the method of cooking and the ingredients used. Opting for spring rolls that are filled with more vegetables and lean meat, and less oil can make them a healthier choice.
Also, portion control is key. Enjoying one or two spring rolls as part of a balanced meal that includes plenty of fresh vegetables can be a part of a healthy diet.
Remember, the nutritional content can vary widely based on the size of the spring roll and the specific ingredients used, so it's always a good idea to check the nutritional information if available.

Nguyên liệu

1.5 kg ground pork (not too lean, as dry spring rolls aren't as satisfying 😋)
2-3 onions, finely chopped (I use a lot to balance the flavor and add sweetness)
1-2 cloves of garlic, minced 4-5 taro roots, grated
A large handful of wood ear mushrooms, soaked, trimmed, and finely chopped
About 2 large handfuls of glass noodles (miến), cut into small pieces (the dry noodles will absorb moisture—this is the secret to crispy, long-lasting spring rolls! 😉)
Fish sauce
Salt
Pepper
Sugar
Spring roll wrappers - bánh tráng (the crispiest ones are rice paper nets, but if not available, I use regular rice paper or bánh đa nem, which I find to be the best alternative here. You could also use store-bought Chinese crepes, but I prefer the traditional Vietnamese style).

Cách làm

Mix all the ingredients together.
Season to taste. To check if the meat is seasoned well, add a little salt and sugar, take a small piece, and cook it in the microwave for 1 minute. Taste it, and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you don't have a microwave, cook a small piece on a pan and taste it.
(Just a taste, okay! Don’t end up eating half the bowl of meat! Hahaha!)
Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.

vietnamese spring roll 6-4-5.jpg 82.9 KB

Roll them out as shown in the video clip.
When frying, make sure the oil is very hot; this will make the spring rolls crispy and not oily. If using an air fryer, brush a little oil on them and fry—still very good, I’d rate it 8/10!
To store spring rolls in the freezer for busy people (busy with work, taking care of kids, or binge-watching Korean dramas, which is also being busy! Hahaha!), there are two methods:

Method 1 for those with a large freezer: Arrange the spring rolls 1 cm apart on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a plastic bag and store in the freezer. This prevents them from sticking together.
Method 2 for those with a smaller freezer: Use cling film to wrap them as shown in the clip. This method isn’t very eco-friendly, but I hope you’ll understand! Hahaha!

When ready to eat, take them straight from the freezer and fry them without thawing.
Good luck to everyone! If you try it out, share your results with me on FB, TikTok, or Instagram using the hashtag #thythycooking! (I’m everywhere!)