Can I make these spring rolls ahead of time?
It's best to assemble them just before serving, as the rice paper can harden and the vegetables can lose their crispness. However, you can prep all the ingredients a day in advance.
LUNCH
Vietnamese Grilled Pork and Shrimp Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn)
These fresh and vibrant Vietnamese spring rolls are packed with flavorful grilled pork, succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and vermicelli noodles, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Served with a rich peanut dipping sauce, they make for a perfect light and satisfying meal.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Marinate the thinly sliced pork shoulder with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce for 15 minutes. Grill the pork over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Set aside to cool, then slice into thin strips.
02
Prepare the shrimp: if using raw shrimp, boil or steam them until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Slice each cooked shrimp in half lengthwise. Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, drain, and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
03
Prepare the peanut dipping sauce: In a small saucepan, combine hoisin sauce, peanut butter, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and lime juice. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if needed to reach desired consistency.
04
Set up your rolling station: Have a shallow dish of warm water ready for dipping the rice paper. Arrange the grilled pork, sliced shrimp, cooked vermicelli, shredded lettuce, and mint leaves on a platter.
05
To assemble a spring roll: Dip one rice paper wrapper in warm water for 15-20 seconds until pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface. Place a small amount of lettuce, mint, vermicelli, and a few strips of pork near the bottom edge of the wrapper.
06
Arrange 2-3 shrimp halves, cut-side up, slightly above the other ingredients, ensuring they will be visible through the wrapper. Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the fillings, then fold in the sides.
07
Roll tightly from the bottom up, creating a neat cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.
08
Serve the Vietnamese Grilled Pork and Shrimp Spring Rolls immediately with the prepared peanut dipping sauce.
About This Recipe
These fresh and vibrant Vietnamese spring rolls are packed with flavorful grilled pork, succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and vermicelli noodles, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Served with a rich peanut dipping sauce, they make for a perfect light and satisfying meal.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
Do not over-soak the rice paper wrappers, as they will become too sticky and tear easily. A quick dip is all that's needed. For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the peanut dipping sauce.
Easy Substitutions
Chicken or tofu can be used instead of pork. Cucumbers or bean sprouts can be added for extra crunch. For a vegetarian option, omit the pork and shrimp and add more vegetables or pan-fried tofu.
Storage & Reheating
Spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh. If you must store them, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. The wrappers will harden slightly. Store the peanut sauce separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spring rolls as a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a healthy snack. They pair wonderfully with a side of pickled daikon and carrots or a simple green salad. A cold Vietnamese iced coffee or fresh limeade would also complement the flavors.
Common Mistakes
Over-soaking rice paper leads to tearing. Not rolling tightly enough results in loose, falling-apart rolls. Overfilling the wrappers makes them difficult to close. Not rinsing vermicelli noodles after cooking can make them clumpy. Forgetting to slice the grilled pork thinly can make the rolls bulky.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of rice paper should I use?
Look for round or square rice paper wrappers, typically 8.5 inches in diameter, available in Asian grocery stores. Ensure they are made from rice flour.
How do I prevent the spring rolls from sticking together?
Place assembled rolls on a platter without touching each other, or separate them with parchment paper. You can also lightly brush them with a tiny bit of oil.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a perfect spring roll is a tight, even roll that holds its shape. Don't be discouraged if your first few attempts aren't perfect; practice makes perfect! The visibility of the shrimp through the wrapper is a classic presentation element, so arrange them carefully. The balance of fresh herbs, savory grilled meat, and sweet-and-tangy dipping sauce is what makes Gỏi Cuốn so beloved.
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