Craving a healthy, delicious, and refreshing meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than these pork spring rolls! This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant appetizer, or even a quick and satisfying dinner. These homemade spring rolls are bursting with fresh flavors and textures, and they're surprisingly simple to assemble. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe for a truly delightful dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 12 spring rolls. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Pork Filling:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
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For the Spring Rolls:
- 1 package (about 12) rice paper wrappers
- Lettuce leaves (butter lettuce or romaine work well)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh basil leaves
- Vermicelli rice noodles (cooked according to package directions)
- Peanut sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce (Makes about 1 cup):
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons water (add more for desired consistency)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Filling:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded carrots, cilantro, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through and the flavors have melded. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Assembling the Spring Rolls:
- Prepare a shallow dish with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper in the warm water for a few seconds, until softened. Lay it flat on a clean, damp surface.
- Place a few lettuce leaves, a small portion of the pork filling, some cooked vermicelli noodles, and a few mint and basil leaves in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then tightly roll it up from the bottom.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Serving the Spring Rolls:
Serve the fresh spring rolls immediately with the peanut sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Spring Rolls:
- Don't over-soak the rice paper wrappers: Just a quick dip in warm water is all they need to soften. Too much water will make them tear easily.
- Prepare all your ingredients ahead of time: This makes the assembly process much quicker and easier.
- Get creative with your fillings: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or bean sprouts. Shrimp or tofu also make excellent additions.
- Make the peanut sauce ahead of time: The flavors will deepen and meld together nicely.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Spring Rolls: Omit the pork and add more vegetables like mushrooms, tofu, or edamame.
- Spicy Spring Rolls: Add more red pepper flakes to the pork filling or a dash of sriracha to the peanut sauce.
Nutritional Information (per spring roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade pork spring rolls! They're a fantastic healthy meal option, a perfect addition to your next party, or a fun weeknight dinner. Remember to share your culinary creations with us!