Spring Rolls 2 Ways

Spring Rolls 2 Ways is a medium Vietnamese recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Brian Lagerstrom on YouTube.

Prep: 1 hr 33 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 2 hrs 28 min

Cost: $108.96 total, $27.24 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Large Shell-On Shrimp (12‑15 count, black tiger, keep shell on for poaching then peel)
  • 100 g Salt (for poaching water (half cup))
  • 110 g Rice Vermicelli Noodles (Thai style, thin vermicelli)
  • 180 g Carrot (julienned thin strips, 2‑3 inches long)
  • 20 g Sugar (for quick pickling)
  • 20 g Rice Vinegar (for quick pickling)
  • 150 g Purple Cabbage (shredded very thin)
  • 150 g Red Bell Pepper (julienned thin strips)
  • 100 g Cucumber (seeded and julienned)
  • 15 g Fresh Basil Leaves (large leaves, torn)
  • 15 g Fresh Mint Leaves (whole leaves)
  • 20 g Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)
  • 8 large leaves Green Leaf Lettuce (outer leaf for each roll)
  • 10 pieces Rice Paper (9‑inch) (softened briefly before rolling)
  • 100 g Hoisin Sauce
  • 30 g Peanut Butter (smooth, no‑salt)
  • 5 g Garlic (grated (about 1 clove))
  • 5 g Ginger (grated)
  • 5 g Sesame Oil (to finish the dipping sauce)
  • 30 g Water (for dipping sauce)
  • 75 g Rice Vermicelli Noodles (for fried rolls) (soaked 20 min before use)
  • 15 g Olive Oil (for sautéing mushrooms (1 tbsp))
  • 100 g Shiitake Mushrooms (small diced)
  • 225 g Shrimp (peeled, deveined) (generic 26‑30 count)
  • 225 g Ground Pork
  • 30 g Soy Sauce
  • 50 g Oyster Sauce
  • 1 large Egg (beaten)
  • 50 g Scallion Bottoms (thinly sliced)
  • 50 g Carrot (for fried filling) (julienned)
  • 100 g Water (sweet chili sauce)
  • 5 g Garlic (sweet chili sauce) (grated)
  • 5 g Ginger (sweet chili sauce) (grated)
  • 25 g Fish Sauce
  • 50 g Rice Vinegar (sweet chili sauce)
  • 65 g Sugar
  • 25 g Sambal Chili Sauce
  • 15 g Ketchup
  • 5 g Cornstarch (for slurry)
  • 25 g Water (slurry)
  • 2 qt Neutral High Smoke‑Point Oil (e.g., canola or peanut oil for deep‑frying)
  • 12 pieces Spring Roll Pastry Sheets (phyllo‑like sheets, frozen until use)
  • 2 tbsp Cornstarch Slurry (for sealing) (mixed with water, used to brush edges)

Instructions

  1. Poach Shrimp for Fresh Rolls

    Fill two medium saucepans with water, bring to a gentle boil, add 100 g salt, then add the 1 lb shell‑on shrimp. Reduce heat and poach for 4 minutes at about 175 °F, then transfer to a plate to cool and refrigerate.

    Time: PT4M

  2. Prepare Rice Vermicelli for Fresh Rolls

    In a second saucepan bring water to a hard simmer, add 50 g salt, then stir in 110 g rice vermicelli. Soak for 4 minutes, drain, rinse quickly with cold water, and cut with scissors into short pieces.

    Time: PT6M

  3. Quick‑Pickle Carrots

    Julienne 180 g carrot into 2‑3 inch strips. Toss with 10 g salt, 20 g sugar, and 20 g rice vinegar. Let sit 5‑10 minutes, then drain excess liquid.

    Time: PT8M

  4. Shred Remaining Vegetables

    Thinly shred a quarter head of purple cabbage, julienne a red bell pepper, and seed‑then julienne a small cucumber. Set aside in separate bowls.

    Time: PT6M

  5. Gather Fresh Herbs

    Roughly tear basil leaves, keep mint whole, and chop cilantro. Keep ready for assembly.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Make Hoisin‑Peanut Dipping Sauce

    Whisk together 100 g hoisin sauce, 30 g peanut butter, 5 g grated garlic, 5 g grated ginger, 30 g rice vinegar, 5 g sesame oil, and 30 g water until smooth.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Soften Rice Paper

    Dip each 9‑inch rice paper sheet in room‑temperature water for about 5 seconds, then lay flat on a plate.

    Time: PT1M

  8. Assemble Fresh Spring Rolls

    Remove shells from poached shrimp, slice each shrimp lengthwise. Place 2 shrimp pieces on the paper, then add cucumber, bell pepper, cabbage, pickled carrots, noodles, cilantro, mint, basil, and finally a lettuce leaf. Roll tightly, then repeat with a second softened rice‑paper sheet for extra sealing.

    Time: PT15M

  9. Soak Vermicelli for Fried Rolls

    Place 75 g rice vermicelli in a bowl, cover with warm water and let soak for 20 minutes. Drain well before using.

    Time: PT20M

  10. Sauté Mushrooms

    Heat a non‑stick skillet over medium‑high, add a splash of oil, then sauté 100 g diced shiitake mushrooms with a pinch of salt until all moisture evaporates and mushrooms are browned, about 10 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium‑high

  11. Process Shrimp and Pork

    In a food processor combine 225 g peeled shrimp and 225 g ground pork. Pulse for about 20 seconds until coarsely chopped but not pureed.

    Time: PT1M

  12. Mix Filling for Fried Rolls

    In a large bowl combine the processed meat, sautéed mushrooms, 30 g soy sauce, 50 g oyster sauce, 5 g grated garlic, 1 beaten egg, 10 g chopped cilantro, 50 g sliced scallion bottoms, 50 g shredded carrot, and the drained vermicelli (cut into short pieces). Mix with gloved hands until evenly incorporated.

    Time: PT5M

  13. Prepare Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

    Combine 100 g water, 5 g grated garlic, 5 g grated ginger, 25 g fish sauce, 50 g rice vinegar, 65 g sugar, 25 g sambal chili sauce, and 15 g ketchup in a small saucepan. Bring to a hard simmer, reduce by half (≈5 minutes), then stir in a slurry of 5 g cornstarch mixed with 25 g water. Cook until thickened and leaves a trail when stirred.

    Time: PT11M

    Temperature: medium

  14. Heat Oil for Deep‑Frying

    Fill a deep‑fry pot with 2 qt neutral oil and heat to 350 °F. Use a thermometer to monitor temperature.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 350°F

  15. Assemble Fried Spring Rolls

    Lay a spring‑roll pastry sheet in a diamond shape. Place about 75 g of filling in a corner, fold the bottom over, pinch the sides, fold the opposite side, then roll into an envelope. Brush the seam with cornstarch slurry and roll tightly.

    Time: PT15M

  16. Deep‑Fry Spring Rolls

    Gently lower the rolled pastries into the 350 °F oil. Fry for 5‑6 minutes, turning with a spider after the first minute to ensure even browning. Remove when lightly golden and firm.

    Time: PT6M

    Temperature: 350°F

  17. Drain and Cool

    Transfer fried rolls to a wire rack to drain excess oil and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

    Time: PT10M

  18. Serve

    Arrange fresh rolls with hoisin‑peanut sauce and fried rolls with sweet chili sauce. Enjoy immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
8 g
Carbohydrates
15 g
Fat
4 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains gluten, Contains nuts, Contains shellfish

Allergens: Shellfish, Peanuts, Soy, Wheat, Egg, Fish

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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Spring Rolls 2 Ways

Recipe by Brian Lagerstrom

Two delicious ways to enjoy spring rolls at home: a light, herb‑filled Vietnamese fresh roll and a crunchy, deep‑fried version with a savory pork‑shrimp filling. Both are served with homemade dipping sauces – a sweet‑salty hoisin‑peanut sauce for the fresh rolls and a tangy sweet‑chili sauce for the fried rolls.

MediumVietnameseServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 21m
Prep
47m
Cook
15m
Cleanup
2h 23m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$108.96
Total cost
$27.24
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Poach shrimp gently at 175 °F to keep them tender.
  • Double‑wrap fresh spring rolls for a tight, leak‑proof roll.
  • Seal fried spring roll edges with cornstarch slurry to prevent oil leakage.
  • Fry at 350 °F for 5‑6 minutes until lightly golden; avoid over‑cooking.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; use a deep‑fry pot with a stable handle and keep children away.
  • Handle raw shrimp and pork with separate utensils to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure oil stays at 350 °F; overheating oil can ignite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of fresh Vietnamese spring rolls in Vietnamese cuisine?

A

Fresh Vietnamese spring rolls, known as gỏi cuốn, originated as a light, portable snack in southern Vietnam. They showcase the balance of fresh herbs, rice noodles, and protein, reflecting the Vietnamese emphasis on bright flavors and healthy eating.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of fresh Vietnamese spring rolls in Vietnam?

A

In central Vietnam, rolls often include sliced pork and a richer peanut sauce, while in the south they favor shrimp, fresh herbs, and a lighter hoisin‑peanut dip. Some regions add fried shallots or toasted peanuts for extra texture.

cultural
Q

How is fresh Vietnamese spring rolls traditionally served in Vietnam?

A

They are typically served at room temperature on a platter with lettuce leaves, fresh herbs, and a small bowl of dipping sauce. The rolls are eaten by picking them up with the hands and dipping each bite into the sauce.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is fresh Vietnamese spring rolls traditionally associated with in Vietnamese culture?

A

Fresh spring rolls are popular at family gatherings, summer picnics, and as a starter for festive meals because they are quick to assemble and highlight seasonal produce.

cultural
Q

How does fresh Vietnamese spring rolls fit into the broader Vietnamese cuisine tradition?

A

They embody the Vietnamese culinary pillars of balance, freshness, and harmony of textures. The use of rice paper, herbs, and light sauces aligns with the cuisine’s focus on healthful, aromatic dishes.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for fresh Vietnamese spring rolls versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include rice vermicelli, shrimp or pork, fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro), lettuce, and rice paper. Substitutes can be tofu for protein, glass noodles for gluten‑free needs, or other herbs like perilla.

cultural
Q

What other Vietnamese dishes pair well with fresh Vietnamese spring rolls?

A

They pair beautifully with phở broth, bún thịt nướng (grilled pork noodle salad), or a simple Vietnamese iced coffee for a balanced meal.

cultural
Q

What makes fresh Vietnamese spring rolls special or unique in Vietnamese cuisine?

A

Their combination of raw, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tender protein wrapped in delicate rice paper creates a multi‑textured bite that is both refreshing and satisfying, unlike cooked rolls that are heavier.

cultural
Q

How has fresh Vietnamese spring rolls evolved over time in Vietnamese cuisine?

A

Originally a street‑food snack, they have become a global appetizer with variations that incorporate non‑traditional proteins, fusion sauces, and even gluten‑free wrappers, while still preserving the core fresh‑herb concept.

cultural
Q

What are common misconceptions about fresh Vietnamese spring rolls?

A

Many think they must be fried or that the rice paper should be soggy. In reality, the rolls are meant to be light, with just enough moisture to stay pliable, and they are traditionally served fresh, not deep‑fried.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making fresh Vietnamese spring rolls?

A

Over‑soaking the rice paper, using too much filling, and not rolling tightly are frequent errors. These cause the roll to tear or the filling to fall out. Double‑wrapping and a firm roll solve the problem.

technical
Q

Why does this fresh spring roll recipe use a second rice‑paper wrapper instead of a single sheet?

A

The second sheet adds structural strength, ensuring the roll stays sealed during handling and when dipped into sauce. It prevents the delicate first sheet from tearing, especially with a generous amount of filling.

technical
Q

Can I make fresh Vietnamese spring rolls ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, assemble the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Keep the dipping sauce separate to avoid sogginess.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making fresh Vietnamese spring rolls?

A

The rice paper should be translucent but still firm, the roll should be tight and uniform, and the herbs should be bright green. The filling should be visible in cross‑section, showing layers of shrimp, veggies, and noodles.

technical
Q

How do I know when the deep‑fried spring rolls are done cooking?

A

When the pastry turns a light golden‑brown and feels firm to the touch, usually after 5‑6 minutes at 350 °F. The interior should be hot and the coating crisp, not soggy.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Brian Lagerstrom specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Brian Lagerstrom focuses on practical, step‑by‑step home cooking tutorials, especially Asian‑inspired dishes, with clear explanations of techniques and ingredient choices.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Brian Lagerstrom's approach to Vietnamese cooking differ from other Asian cooking channels?

A

Brian Lagerstrom emphasizes simplicity and accessibility, using readily available ingredients and minimal equipment while still preserving authentic flavors, unlike some channels that rely on hard‑to‑find specialty items.

channel
Q

What other Vietnamese recipes is the YouTube channel Brian Lagerstrom known for?

A

Brian Lagerstrom is also known for his Pad Thai tutorial, Vietnamese pho broth, and easy bánh mì sandwich videos, all featuring clear, beginner‑friendly instructions.

channel

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