Crispy, golden-brown spring rolls are a beloved treat enjoyed worldwide, and this Ramadan, we're sharing a special recipe for a deliciously authentic Chinese version. These delightful parcels of flavour are perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Imagine the satisfying crunch of the wrapper giving way to a vibrant filling of fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings – a true culinary experience that's both simple to make and endlessly satisfying. Beyond being a delicious addition to your Iftar spread, these spring rolls are incredibly versatile, adaptable to your preferred fillings and dietary needs.
This recipe offers a step-by-step guide, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, ensuring you achieve perfectly crispy spring rolls every time. From preparing the vibrant filling of finely julienned vegetables and seasoned meat to the art of rolling and frying to achieve that desirable golden-brown hue, we'll walk you through each stage with clear instructions and helpful tips. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey, creating a dish that's sure to become a Ramadan favourite.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
- Sieve
Ingredients
- Carrots: 2
- Cabbage: 1/2
- Yellow Capsicum
- Red Capsicum
- Green Capsicum
- Spring Onion (white part)
- Spring Onion (green part)
- Noodles: 200g
- Salt: 1-1.5 tbsp
- Garlic: 5 cloves
- Ginger: 1-inch piece
- Green Chilies: 3
- Dark Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Chili Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Black Pepper: 1 tbsp
- White Vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Cornflour: 1 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 1 tbsp
- Oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- Finely chop carrots, cabbage, yellow, red, and green capsicums, and the white part of spring onions. (You can adjust the vegetable quantities.)
- Boil and cool 200g of noodles.
- Combine all chopped vegetables in a bowl, add salt, and mash with your hands. Let it rest for 10-12 minutes to release water. Then, squeeze out all the excess water.
- Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped garlic and fry until lightly browned. Add chopped ginger and green chilies, fry briefly.
- Add all the vegetables and stir-fry on high heat until slightly softened. Add the green part of the spring onion.
- Add noodles (cut into smaller pieces if necessary), soy sauce, chili sauce, black pepper, and vinegar. Toss well on high heat.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.
Step 2. Make the Crispy Wrappers
- Mix equal parts cornflour and all-purpose flour (1 tbsp each), with salt and water to form a smooth batter (adjust water as needed). Strain if necessary.
- Heat a non-stick pan lightly. Pour a spoonful of batter and spread thinly to form a circle. Cook until lightly golden brown and remove from the pan. Repeat until all the batter is used. Dust cooked papdis with cornflour to prevent sticking.
Step 3. Assemble and Fry the Spring Rolls
- Place a spoonful of the cooled vegetable mixture in the center of a papdi. Fold it to create a roll. Seal the edges with a little of the cornflour and all-purpose flour mixture.
- Deep-fry the rolls in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Ensure vegetables are finely chopped for easy rolling and to prevent excess moisture in the spring rolls.
- Squeezing out excess water from the vegetables is crucial for crispy spring rolls.
- Don't overcook the vegetable filling to maintain its crunch.
- Use a non-stick pan or lightly grease the pan with oil or water to prevent sticking while making the papdis.
- Fry the spring rolls on medium heat to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 70-90g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I make these spring rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and fry just before serving for optimal crispiness.
2. What can I substitute if I don't have rice paper wrappers?
While rice paper wrappers are traditional, you can experiment with wonton wrappers or even small flour tortillas for a slightly different texture. Just be sure to adjust your frying time accordingly.
These crispy Chinese spring rolls are a delightful addition to any Iftar feast, offering a delicious and satisfying culinary experience. Their vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch make them a perfect sharing dish for family and friends during this special time. Enjoy the process of creating these flavorful rolls and savor the delicious results!