Goi Cuon: Fresh and Flavorful Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables, shrimp, and herbs wrapped in rice paper. The rolls are typically served with a deliciously savory peanut dipping sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or light meal. This dish is not only healthy but also bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant colors.

Ingredients:

For the Spring Rolls:
– 12 rice paper wrappers
– 1/2 lb cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and sliced in half lengthwise)
– 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles
– 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1-2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce if necessary)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional, for a bit of heat)
– Chopped peanuts and fresh lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
– Start by prepping all the vegetables and herbs. Shred the lettuce, carrots, and julienne the cucumber.
– Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse under cold water and drain well.
– Have the shrimp cooked, peeled, and sliced.

2. Set Up Your Rolling Station:
– Fill a large shallow dish or pie plate with warm water.
– Have a clean, damp tea towel or cutting board ready to work on.

3. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
– Take one rice paper wrapper and dip it into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable and soft.
– Lay the wrapper flat on your work surface.
– On the bottom third of the wrapper, place a small handful of the noodles, followed by some lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and a few leaves of each herb.
– Place 2-3 shrimp halves just above the pile of vegetables.
– Carefully fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. The rice paper will seal itself as you roll.
– Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

4. Make the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, water, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce (if using) until smooth.
– Adjust the consistency with more water if necessary and taste to adjust seasoning.
– Garnish with chopped peanuts if desired.

5. Serve:
– Arrange the spring rolls on a platter with the peanut dipping sauce on the side.
– Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges, if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing and healthy Goi Cuon with a side of savory peanut sauce!