Rice Paper Rolls
Try this Rice Paper Rolls recipe
Try this Rice Paper Rolls recipe
- 200 g quinoa rinsed and drained.
- 500 ml water.
- 1 medium avocado peeled.
- 1 medium lebanese cucumber coarsely grated.
- 1 medium carrot coarsely grated.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped.
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint chopped.
- 150 g chicken cooked and finely shredded (optional).
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar.
- 1 pinch sea salt.
- 1 pinch freshly cracked black pepper.
- 8 rice paper wrappers.
- 1 tablespoon tamari to serve.
- Carbohydrate 0.549595000972567 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0585700000844202 g
- Fiber 0.430000012290076 g
- Protein 0.271005000380469 g
- Saturated Fat 0.011973500022088 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (358g)
- Sodium 1.81600000346932 mg
- Sugar 0.11959498868249 g
- Trans Fat 0.0100730000138773 g
- Calories 3 calories
Step-by-step
- Place quinoa into a small saucepan with the water. Bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat and cool. (You will not need all this amount of quinoa when cooked. Freeze the remaining quinoa for later use - it freezes beautifully.)
- Squeeze as much moisture out of the cucumbers as you can. Roughly mash the avocado and place into a bowl with the cucumber, carrot, chia seeds, herbs and chicken (if used) into a bowl and gently mix together.
- Stir in about a third to half of the cooled quinoa and as much rice vinegar as you like. Season with salt and pepper. Divide mixture into 8 portions.
- Fill a large shallow bowl with warm water and dip each wrapper, one at a time, into the water to soften, about 20 seconds (or as per packet instructions).
- Place the softened wrapper flat onto a damp tea towel on the kitchen benchtop. Place a portion of the quinoa mixture in a straight line across the centre of the wrapper leaving about a 5cm (2 inch) edge uncovered.
- Fold the uncovered sides over the filling and gently roll into a tight roll to enclose the filling. Repeat this process with all the paper rolls.
- Serve the rolls with some soy sauce or your favourite dipping sauce.
My Go-To Summer Lunch: Refreshing Rice Paper Rolls
Summer days call for light, refreshing meals, and nothing beats a batch of homemade rice paper rolls. They're not just delicious; they're incredibly versatile and customizable. As a busy professional, finding quick and healthy lunch options is crucial. These rice paper rolls fit the bill perfectly. They take about 20 minutes to prepare, and the leftovers can be stored for a couple of days, making them perfect for meal prepping.
I love the adaptability of this recipe. One day, I might fill mine with grilled chicken and crisp veggies for a protein-packed lunch. Other times, I might opt for a vegetarian version using tofu or simply a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables. The possibilities are truly endless! I've even been known to add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. The beauty of this dish is that it lets you use whatever ingredients you have on hand – a perfect solution for a spontaneous lunch!
Beyond the Recipe: A Taste of Simplicity
For me, making these rice paper rolls is more than just preparing a meal; it’s a small act of self-care. The process itself is meditative. The delicate act of dipping the rice paper, arranging the filling, and rolling it all up is surprisingly soothing. It's a moment to disconnect from the demands of my workday and reconnect with something simple and nourishing. And let's be honest, the reward is incredibly satisfying – a delicious, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing meal that brings a little joy to my lunch break.
I often find myself making a double batch, enjoying one set for lunch and packing the rest for a quick and healthy dinner. It's a perfect meal for warm evenings when you don't want anything heavy. My colleagues often ask me for the recipe – which is always a compliment! It’s become a go-to recipe not just for me but for many of my friends. It's a testament to how something simple and delicious can truly brighten someone’s day. The best part? You can easily adjust the ingredients to match your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply want to incorporate more greens into your diet, these rolls are wonderfully adaptable.
Tips and Variations
Get creative with fillings: Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients! Think shredded pork, shrimp, cooked sweet potato, bell peppers, or even mango for a sweet and savory combination. The possibilities are endless.
Make it a party snack: These rice paper rolls are fantastic finger food for parties or gatherings. Set up a DIY station with various fillings and let your guests create their own custom rolls. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy this dish.
Prep ahead: You can prepare the filling ingredients in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. This makes assembling the rolls even faster when you're ready to eat.
Dipping sauces: Experiment with different dipping sauces to enhance the flavor. Peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a simple soy sauce and rice vinegar mixture work perfectly.
Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They're best eaten within a day or two.
Ultimately, these rice paper rolls are more than just a recipe; it's a simple pleasure that brings a touch of freshness and health to my daily routine. It's the perfect embodiment of a quick, delicious, and customizable lunch – the kind of meal that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized, ready to tackle the rest of your day. Give it a try, and you’ll likely find yourself making them again and again.
