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Crispy Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Fresh Shrimp Easy Homemade Recipe

crispy rice paper spring rolls - featured image

These crispy rice paper spring rolls with fresh shrimp and vibrant veggies offer a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and juicy, fresh filling. Quick and easy to prepare, they make a satisfying snack or appetizer for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

  • Rice paper wrappers (round, about 8-inch diameter)
  • Fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 12 medium-sized, cooked or raw)
  • Carrots, julienned (1 medium carrot)
  • Cucumber, julienned (1/2 medium cucumber, seeded)
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (2 stalks)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (a handful, stems removed)
  • Fresh mint leaves (a handful, optional but recommended)
  • Rice vermicelli noodles (about 50g dry, cooked and cooled)
  • Neutral oil with high smoke point like peanut or vegetable oil (about 2 cups for shallow frying)
  • Hoisin sauce (3 tablespoons)
  • Peanut butter, smooth (2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh lime juice (1 tablespoon)
  • Crushed peanuts (for garnish, optional)
  • Water (to thin sauce as needed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp: If using raw shrimp, bring a pot of water to boil, add shrimp, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and cool. Slice each shrimp in half lengthwise for a better fit inside the rolls.
  2. Cook the rice vermicelli: Follow package instructionsโ€”usually soaking in hot water for 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  3. Prep the vegetables: Julienne carrots and cucumber, thinly slice green onions, and pick fresh cilantro and mint leaves. Keep everything fresh and dry to avoid sogginess.
  4. Soften the rice paper wrappers: Fill a large shallow bowl with warm water. Dip one wrapper in water for about 5 seconds or until just pliable but not overly soft. Lay it flat on a clean surface or cutting board.
  5. Assemble the rolls: On the softened wrapper, layer a small handful of rice vermicelli, 2-3 pieces of shrimp, some carrot, cucumber, green onion slices, cilantro, and mint leaves. Donโ€™t overstuffโ€”leave about 1-inch border all around.
  6. Fold the wrapper: Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from one end to the other, like a burrito. The wrapper should stick to itself sealing the roll.
  7. Heat the oil: Pour about 1/2 inch of oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350ยฐF / 175ยฐC). Use caution to avoid overheating or smoke.
  8. Fry the rolls: Gently place 2-3 rolls in the oil, seam side down. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn carefully. Drain on paper towels.
  9. Make the dipping sauce: Whisk hoisin sauce, peanut butter, and lime juice in a bowl. Add water a teaspoon at a time until smooth and pourable. Garnish with crushed peanuts if desired.
  10. Serve: Arrange the crispy spring rolls on a platter with dipping sauce on the side. Best enjoyed hot for that satisfying crunch.

Notes

Do not over-soak the rice paper; a quick 5-second dip is enough. Keep filling ingredients dry to avoid sogginess. Maintain oil temperature around 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for best results. Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady. Drain rolls on paper towels immediately after frying to keep them crispy. Serve immediately or keep warm in a low oven (200ยฐF / 90ยฐC). For a healthier option, air fry or bake, but the texture will be less crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring rolls, crispy spring rolls, shrimp spring rolls, rice paper rolls, appetizer, Vietnamese recipe, easy recipe, fried spring rolls