Giant Vietnamese Spring Roll with Coconut Peanut Sauce

Giant Vietnamese spring rolls with coconut peanut sauce offer a delightful fusion of fresh, vibrant ingredients wrapped in delicate rice paper, making them a perfect appetiser or light meal. They are packed with flavour, combining the crispness of fresh vegetables, the aromatic herbs, and the tender poached chicken, all enveloped in a soft, chewy wrapper. The highlight of this dish is the rich and creamy coconut peanut sauce, which adds a layer of indulgence to every bite.

Unlike the deep-fried versions popular in other cuisines, Vietnamese spring rolls are typically served fresh, offering a healthier option that showcases the natural flavours of the ingredients. The giant version of these rolls takes this traditional dish to a new level, making them a tasty treat and visually impressive centerpiece for any dining table.

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What Are Spring Rolls and Why Are They Popular?

Spring rolls, a beloved staple in Vietnamese cuisine, are light, fresh, and versatile appetisers or snacks. These delicacies are traditionally made with rice paper wrappers and filled with various fresh vegetables, herbs, and proteins. The Vietnamese version, often referred to as “Gỏi cuốn,” stands out for its use of fresh, raw ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to its deep-fried counterparts found in other Asian cuisines.

The popularity of spring rolls can be attributed to their refreshing taste, the interplay of textures, and the vibrant flavours of the fresh herbs and vegetables. They are also incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations based on personal preference or seasonal ingredients. In addition, spring rolls are gluten-free and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs, making them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Getting the Best Ingredients for Giant Vietnamese Spring Rolls

The quality of ingredients plays a crucial role in the success of your giant Vietnamese spring rolls. By sourcing the freshest ingredients, you can elevate the flavour profile and texture of your spring rolls, creating a dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing. Here are some tips for selecting the best components:

Rice Paper Wrappers: Opt for large, high-quality rice paper wrappers that are soft and pliable when moistened. Look for wrappers that are translucent and free from cracks.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh mint and coriander are essential for authentic Vietnamese spring rolls. Choose herbs that are vibrant and aromatic, with no signs of wilting.
Vegetables: Crisp, fresh vegetables are key to achieving the desired texture. Select firm carrots and cucumbers, and ensure they are cut into uniform matchsticks for even distribution.
Protein: For this recipe, chicken is poached in a coconut milk-based broth, infusing it with rich flavour. Use fresh, organic chicken breast for the best results.
Mango: While optional, ripe mango adds a delightful sweetness to the rolls. Ensure the mango is just ripe—firm but yielding slightly to pressure.

Ingredient Substitution

While this recipe is designed to be both flavourful and authentic, there may be times when ingredient substitutions are necessary due to availability or dietary restrictions. These substitutions ensure that you can still enjoy the essence of giant Vietnamese spring rolls, even when specific ingredients are hard to find. Here are some alternatives:

Chicken: Swap the poached chicken breast with tofu for a vegetarian version. Tofu can be marinated in the same coconut milk and poached or grilled for added flavour.
Herbs: If you can’t find fresh mint or coriander, consider using Thai basil or parsley as alternatives. These herbs will provide a different but still aromatic flavour.
Rice Noodles: If fine rice noodles are unavailable, vermicelli noodles or even spiralised zucchini can be used as a low-carb substitute.
Peanut Butter: For those with peanut allergies, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used to create a creamy, nutty dipping sauce.
Mango: If mango is not in season, try substituting with pineapple or papaya for a similar sweet, tropical note.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Giant Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Soaking the Rice Paper: Don’t over-soak the rice paper wrappers. A quick dip in lukewarm water is sufficient to soften them. Over-soaking can make them too fragile and difficult to work with.
Layering Ingredients: When assembling the spring rolls, start with the lettuce leaf to create a stable base. Then, layer the noodles, vegetables, herbs, and protein to ensure an even distribution of flavours in every bite.
Rolling Technique: Roll the spring rolls tightly but gently. Fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom, ensuring the filling is enclosed securely.
Prepping Ahead: Prepare all ingredients before you start assembling the rolls. This makes the rolling process quicker and ensures the wrappers don’t dry out.
Storage: If not serving immediately, cover the assembled rolls with a damp cloth and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Shop the Equipment

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Did You Enjoy the Giant Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Coconut Peanut Sauce?

If you made these giant Vietnamese spring rolls with coconut peanut sauce, let me know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag your photo #theculinarycartel on Instagram so I can see what you come up with.

Want more inspiration from Vietnam?

Vietnamese Chicken Salad with Candied Chilli Cashews

Crispy Vietnamese Chicken Wings

Vietnamese Steamed Fish

Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these spring rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator covered with a damp cloth to prevent the rice paper from drying out.

What can I use if I don’t have rice paper wrappers?

While rice paper is traditional, you can use large lettuce leaves or collard greens as an alternative wrapper.

How can I prevent the spring rolls from sticking together?

Place a layer of lettuce or parchment paper between the rolls when storing them to prevent sticking.

Is there a way to make the rolls more filling?

You can add more protein like shrimp or tofu, or increase the amount of noodles in each roll for a heartier dish.

Can I freeze the spring rolls?

Fresh spring rolls are best enjoyed immediately. Freezing can alter the texture of the rice paper and vegetables, making them less enjoyable.