Name: Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 7 – 14 sheets of 22cm/8.5″ round rice paper; 11 small cooked prawns/shrimp (about 12cm/5″ in length, unpeeled including the head); 50g / 1.5 oz dried vermicelli noodles; 7 lettuce leaves (soft leaves such as Oak or Butter Lettuce); 14 mint leaves; 1 cup bean sprouts; 1 tbsp peanut butter, preferably smooth (crunchy is okay too); 2 tbsp Hoisin Sauce; 1 1/2 tbsp white vinegar or lime juice; 1/3 cup milk (any fat percentage) or water; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 tsp crushed chili, sambal oelek, or other chili paste (optional, adjust to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 2 reviews

If you’re looking for a fresh, light, and utterly delicious appetizer or snack, the Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe is an absolute gem to add to your culinary repertoire. These rolls are a vibrant mix of tender prawns, crisp lettuce, fresh mint, and delicate vermicelli noodles all wrapped up in translucent rice paper that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The accompanying peanut dipping sauce is creamy, tangy, and packs just the right hint of heat, making every bite an irresistible burst of flavor and texture. Perfect for entertaining or a healthy snack, this recipe never fails to impress both family and friends with its simple yet stunning combination of ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl with a glossy, thick light brown sauce inside, showing a smooth texture with some small lumps. A silver spoon is held above the bowl with sauce dripping from it. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some small beige seeds scattered near it. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the sauce's creamy shine. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe truly special is how effortlessly the simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of textures and flavors. Each component plays a starring role, whether it’s the softness of the vermicelli noodles, the crunch of fresh lettuce, or the bright pop of mint leaves.

Rice paper sheets (7 – 14 sheets, 22cm/8.5″ round): Flexible but sturdy to hold all your fresh fillings, make sure to get good quality sheets for best results.
Cooked prawns/shrimp (11 pieces, about 12cm/5″ in length): Peeled and deveined to make rolling easier and eating a breeze.
Dried vermicelli noodles (50g / 1.5 oz): A light, delicate addition that adds subtle body and texture.
Lettuce leaves (7 soft leaves, like Oak or Butter): Choose tender leaves that won’t overpower the roll but add satisfying crunch.
Mint leaves (14 leaves): Fresh and aromatic, mint elevates the freshness of the rolls to the next level.
Bean sprouts (1 cup): Crisp and juicy, they provide a great contrast in texture.
Peanut butter (1 tbsp, preferably smooth): The base for the irresistible peanut dipping sauce offering creaminess and depth.
Hoisin Sauce (2 tbsp): Adds natural sweetness and complexity to the dipping sauce.
White vinegar or lime juice (1 1/2 tbsp): Brings brightness and balance to the sauce.
Milk (1/3 cup, any fat % or water): Used to adjust the peanut sauce’s consistency for smooth dipping.
Garlic clove (1, minced): Adds a savory kick to the sauce.
Crushed chili or sambal oelek (1/2 tsp, optional): For those who like a bit of heat, it’s an easy way to spice up the peanut sauce.

How to Make Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe

Step 1: Make the Peanut Dipping Sauce

Start by mixing peanut butter, hoisin sauce, white vinegar (or lime juice), minced garlic, crushed chili, and milk in a bowl. The sauce might look a bit lumpy at first, but don’t worry – pop it in the microwave for 30 seconds and then stir it until it’s silky smooth. This sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce will soon become your favorite accompaniment to these fresh rolls.

Step 2: Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles

Soak the dried vermicelli noodles in warm water for about 2 minutes until they’re soft but still springy. Drain them well to avoid soggy rolls later. These noodles add the perfect delicate chew, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Prepare the Prawns and Lettuce

Peel and devein your cooked prawns by slicing them lengthwise – this makes them easier to fold inside the rolls and creates that classic colorful presentation on the outside. Meanwhile, trim the crunchy core from the lettuce leaves to keep everything tender and easy to roll.

Step 4: Assemble the Lettuce Bundles

Lay a small heap of vermicelli noodles and bean sprouts on each lettuce leaf, then roll it tightly with the seam tucked underneath. These bundles bring structure and a satisfying crunch inside each spring roll, making every bite a delightful mix of fresh and sturdy textures.

Step 5: Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a large bowl with warm water and briefly soak 1 or 2 sheets of rice paper for about 2 seconds each. It’s okay if your bowl isn’t big enough to submerge the whole rice paper in one go—just rotate gently and time it right. Lay the softened sheets on your work surface, smooth side down. This quick dipping softens the paper enough to wrap without tearing.

Step 6: Add the Fillings and Roll

On the top third of the rice paper, place 3 prawn halves with a mint leaf between each one—this makes for a beautiful presentation once rolled. Next, add the lettuce bundle in the center. Fold in the left and right edges snugly over the fillings, then start rolling the bottom edge upwards firmly to seal everything inside. The rice paper will naturally stick to itself to form a neat, self-sealing roll.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

For the best texture, enjoy the Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe right away with their luscious peanut dipping sauce. There’s a joy in that first bite when all the fresh ingredients and creamy sauce come together perfectly.

How to Serve Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe

A close-up image of a woman's hand holding a translucent spring roll with visible layers of pink shrimp, green leafy herbs, and pale rice paper wrapping, dipping into a small white round bowl filled with thick light brown sauce topped with crushed peanuts, placed on a white marbled surface with scattered green mint leaves and small peanut pieces around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro leaves over your rolls for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. A few chili flakes or a drizzle of additional hoisin sauce can also add an exciting pop without overpowering the rolls’ delicate tastes.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with light sides like a crisp cucumber salad or a simple bowl of pickled vegetables to complement their freshness. For a heartier meal, steamed jasmine rice and a fragrant broth soup can round things out deliciously.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe on a large platter lined with banana leaves for a festive touch. Serving each roll on a small piece of lettuce or cucumber slice creates adorable bite-sized snacks, perfect for parties or finger-food occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the rice paper can become tough and dry, try to consume them within 1 day for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

Freezing Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe is not recommended as the rice paper turns brittle and the fresh ingredients lose their crispness and vibrancy upon thawing. You’ll get the best experience when eating them fresh.

Reheating

Avoid reheating these rolls as the fresh herbs and crunchy veggies don’t fare well with heat. If you want warm components, prepare the dipping sauce or any sides ahead, but keep the rolls cool and fresh.

FAQs

What can I substitute for prawns in Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe?

If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, try using tofu strips, grilled mushrooms, or even thinly sliced avocado. These alternatives still offer satisfying texture and soak up dipping sauce beautifully.

How long do homemade Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls stay fresh?

Freshly rolled spring rolls are best enjoyed immediately but can last up to 24 hours if stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Beyond that, the rice paper will begin to harden and the fillings lose their crisp freshness.

Can I make the peanut dipping sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The peanut sauce can be prepared a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge in an airtight container. Give it a good stir before serving, and adjust the consistency with a splash of water or milk if it thickens too much.

What is the best way to soften rice paper without tearing?

Briefly dipping the rice paper in warm water for about 2 seconds per side softens it just enough to roll without tearing. Avoid soaking for too long as the paper becomes too fragile and sticky to handle easily.

Is Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe healthy?

Yes! These rolls are full of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and herbs, making them a light yet satisfying choice. The natural ingredients mean fewer calories and tons of nutrients, especially when enjoyed with a homemade, balanced dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

Making the Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience and a delightful way to showcase fresh ingredients in a fun and interactive way. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a wholesome snack, these rolls never fail to impress with their vibrant colors, lively flavors, and satisfying textures. Give this recipe a try and watch your friends and family fall in love with each fresh, tasty bite!