Crispy Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls
Crispy Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls is a medium Vietnamese-inspired recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Ellis Comfort Food on YouTube.
Prep: 25 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 47 min
Cost: $18.10 total, $4.53 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled, cleaned, and finely chopped)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 0.25 cup Chives (roughly chopped, bright green)
- 5 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 0.5 cup Heavy Cream (adds richness and helps bind the filling)
- 1 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch (light coating for extra crispness)
- 8 pieces Rice Paper Sheets (round, 8‑inch diameter)
- 2 cups Vegetable Oil (for shallow frying; use a neutral oil with high smoke point)
- 1 cup Water (warm, for softening rice paper)
Instructions
Prepare Shrimp
Peel, clean, and finely chop the shrimp into small pieces.
Time: PT5M
Dice Onion
Finely dice one medium onion.
Time: PT2M
Chop Chives
Roughly chop a handful of chives (about ¼ cup).
Time: PT1M
Mince Garlic
Mince five to six garlic cloves.
Time: PT1M
Combine Filling Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, onion, chives, garlic, ½ cup heavy cream, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
Time: PT3M
Prepare Rice Paper
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper sheet for 2–3 seconds until pliable, then place on a clean work surface.
Time: PT5M
Assemble Rolls
Spoon a generous portion of the shrimp mixture onto the center of the softened rice paper. Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly like a spring roll.
Time: PT10M
Light Cornstarch Coating
Place 2 tbsp cornstarch in a shallow dish. Lightly dust each assembled roll with a thin layer of cornstarch, shaking off excess.
Time: PT2M
Heat Oil
Add 2 cups vegetable oil to a skillet and heat over medium heat until the oil shimmers and a small piece of rice paper sizzles on contact.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 350°F
Fry Rolls
Carefully place the rolls in the hot oil, leaving space between them. Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the exterior is golden brown and crisp.
Time: PT6M
Temperature: 350°F
Drain and Serve
Remove the rolls with tongs and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 15g
- Carbohydrates
- 20g
- Fat
- 12g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Pescatarian
Allergens: Shellfish, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Shrimp: Prawns
- Instead of Onion: Shallot
- Instead of Chives: Green onions
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic paste
- Instead of Heavy Cream: Half-and-half, Whole milk
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Cornstarch: Potato starch
- Instead of Rice Paper Sheets: Spring roll wrappers
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil, Peanut oil
Equipment Needed
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Shallow Dish or Plate
- Skillet (non‑stick or cast iron)
- Tongs
- Paper Towels
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Finely chopping shrimp to achieve proper texture
- Softening rice paper just enough to roll without tearing
- Applying a thin cornstarch coating for extra crispness
- Maintaining oil temperature around 350°F for even frying
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh, high‑quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Keep the oil temperature steady; adjust the burner as needed.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling.
Troubleshooting
Rice paper tears while rolling.
Soften the sheet a few seconds longer and handle gently; avoid over‑filling.
Rolls fall apart during frying.
Make sure the cornstarch coating is even and the roll is tightly sealed before frying.
Oil is not hot enough; rolls absorb oil and become soggy.
Heat oil to 350°F and test with a small piece of rice paper; it should sizzle immediately.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store unfried rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in a hot oven to regain crispness.
Freezer: Not recommended; the rice paper becomes soggy after thawing.
Room temperature: Best served immediately; will lose crunch within 30 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the shrimp filling up to step 5 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Assemble rolls and keep them covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying; fry just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of crispy shrimp rice paper rolls in Vietnamese-inspired cuisine?
Rice paper rolls, or "gỏi cuốn," are a staple of Vietnamese street food, traditionally served fresh with herbs and dipping sauces. The crispy fried version blends Vietnamese techniques with a Western love for crunchy appetizers, creating a comforting fusion dish.
What are the traditional regional variations of shrimp rice paper rolls in Vietnam?
In central Vietnam, rolls are often served fresh with peanut sauce, while southern versions may include fried tofu or pork. The crispy fried style is more common in modern urban eateries and home cooking adaptations.
How is the authentic traditional way to serve shrimp rice paper rolls in Vietnamese cuisine?
Traditionally, fresh shrimp rolls are served at room temperature with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a side of nuoc cham (fish‑sauce dip). The crispy version is usually paired with sweet‑chili or plum dipping sauces.
What occasions or celebrations are crispy shrimp rice paper rolls traditionally associated with in Vietnamese culture?
While fresh rolls are common for everyday meals, fried rolls are often prepared for family gatherings, festivals, and special celebrations where a heartier, more indulgent snack is desired.
What makes crispy shrimp rice paper rolls special or unique in Vietnamese-inspired cuisine?
The combination of a delicate, rice‑paper wrapper that turns into a golden, crunchy shell, and a creamy shrimp filling creates a contrast of textures rarely found in traditional fresh rolls, making it a standout comfort food.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crispy shrimp rice paper rolls?
Common errors include over‑soaking the rice paper, using too much filling (which causes tearing), and frying at too low a temperature, which leads to soggy rolls. Follow the critical steps for proper softening, coating, and oil heat.
Why does this recipe use a thin cornstarch coating instead of a breadcrumb coating?
Cornstarch creates a light, crisp crust without adding extra bulk or gluten, preserving the delicate rice‑paper texture while still delivering a satisfying crunch.
Can I make crispy shrimp rice paper rolls ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls up to step 8, then cover them with a damp towel and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Fry them just before serving for maximum crispness.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the rolls are done cooking?
The exterior should be a deep golden‑brown, uniformly crisp, and the rice paper should feel firm to the touch. Inside, the shrimp mixture should be hot, tender, and slightly moist.
What does the YouTube channel Ellis Comfort Food specialize in?
Ellis Comfort Food focuses on approachable, home‑cooked comfort dishes that blend classic techniques with modern twists, often featuring simple ingredients and step‑by‑step guidance.
How does the YouTube channel Ellis Comfort Food's approach to Vietnamese‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Ellis Comfort Food emphasizes comfort and ease, simplifying traditional Vietnamese recipes like rice‑paper rolls with fewer steps, accessible ingredients, and clear visual cues, making them less intimidating for home cooks.
Last updated: August 23, 2026








