Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls, are a popular and healthy dish made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and shrimp or pork wrapped in rice paper. These refreshing rolls are typically served with a flavorful dipping sauce. Follow this recipe to create authentic Goi Cuon at home.
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 oz (170g) pork loin or pork shoulder
- 1 package rice vermicelli noodles
- 12 rice paper wrappers (bánh tráng)
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup lettuce leaves, torn into small pieces
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 carrot, julienned
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce if needed)
- Crushed peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preparing the Filling:
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the shrimp. Cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and let cool. Slice each shrimp in half lengthwise.
- Cook the Pork:
- In the same pot, add the pork and cook until fully cooked through, about 20-25 minutes. Remove from the pot, let cool, and thinly slice.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Making the Dipping Sauce:
- Combine Sauce Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, mix the hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and water. Stir until smooth. Garnish with crushed peanuts.
Assembling the Rolls:
- Prepare the Rice Paper:
- Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds to soften. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
- Add the Filling:
- Place a few pieces of shrimp, a small amount of sliced pork, a small handful of rice vermicelli noodles, mint leaves, cilantro, basil, lettuce, cucumber, and carrot in the center of the wrapper.
- Roll the Spring Roll:
- Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling. Then, starting at the bottom, roll tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Serving:
- Serve with Sauce:
- Arrange the fresh spring rolls on a platter and serve with the dipping sauce on the side.
Goi Cuon, or Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls, are a light and healthy dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh herbs, vegetables, shrimp, and pork wrapped in rice paper creates a refreshing and flavorful bite. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make recipe with your family and friends. Chúc ngon miệng!