Introduction
Vietnamese spring rolls, also known as fresh spring rolls or summer rolls, are a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine. Traditionally, they are made by wrapping a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, rice noodles, and protein in a rice paper wrapper. These delicious rolls are often served with a peanut dipping sauce or nuoc cham sauce.
Why Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer to make Vietnamese spring rolls offers a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in crispy and delicious dishes with less oil. This method of cooking is perfect for those who want to enjoy their favorite dishes guilt-free.
Ingredients
To make air fryer Vietnamese spring rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Rice paper wrappers
- Assorted vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, bean sprouts, etc.)
- Rice vermicelli noodles
- Protein of choice (shrimp, chicken, tofu, etc.)
- Herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil, etc.)
- Peanut dipping sauce or nuoc cham sauce
Preparation
1. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare all the vegetables by washing and cutting them into thin strips.
3. Cook the protein of your choice. If using shrimp, you can grill or sauté them until cooked. If using chicken, you can cook it on a stovetop or in an air fryer.
4. Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until it softens. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
5. Start assembling the spring roll by placing a small amount of rice vermicelli noodles, vegetables, protein, and herbs on the bottom third of the rice paper wrapper.
6. Fold the sides of the wrapper towards the center, then roll it up tightly, similar to rolling a burrito.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
Air Frying Process
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray or brush some oil on the surface of the spring rolls to prevent sticking.
3. Place the spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each roll.
4. Cook the spring rolls for about 8-10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through.
5. Once cooked, remove the spring rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Enjoying
Air fryer Vietnamese spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as peanut sauce or nuoc cham sauce. These spring rolls make a great appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Enjoy the crispy texture and vibrant flavors of this healthier version of a Vietnamese classic!
Conclusion
Air fryer Vietnamese spring rolls offer a healthier twist to the traditional deep-fried version. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy these crispy and delicious rolls with less oil, making them a guilt-free option for a satisfying meal. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful combination of fresh ingredients and crunchy texture!