Crispy and Flavorful Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Chả Giò)

Spring Rolls

Introduction:

Vietnamese Spring Rolls, or Chả Giò, are a delightful combination of crispy and flavorful ingredients wrapped in thin rice paper. These golden delights are not only a joy to eat but also fun to prepare. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create your own delicious Chả Giò at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup finely shredded carrots
  • 1 cup finely chopped wood ear mushrooms
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1 cup finely chopped glass noodles (vermicelli)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Spring roll wrappers (rice paper)
  • Cooking oil for frying

Dipping Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 small chili, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Filling:
    • In a large bowl, combine ground pork, shredded carrots, chopped mushrooms, bean sprouts, glass noodles, garlic, shallot, egg, fish sauce, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Soften Rice Paper:
    • Dip each rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10 seconds until it becomes pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
  3. Roll the Spring Rolls:
    • Place a portion of the filling along the lower edge of the rice paper. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly from the bottom to form a spring roll.
  4. Seal Edges:
    • Mix a small amount of water with flour to create a paste. Use this paste to seal the edges of the spring roll.
  5. Heat Oil:
    • In a deep pan, heat cooking oil to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry the Spring Rolls:
    • Carefully place the spring rolls in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Ensure they are evenly cooked on all sides.
  7. Drain Excess Oil:
    • Place the fried spring rolls on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
  8. Prepare Dipping Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, water, minced garlic, and chopped chili (optional). Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  9. Serve:
    • Serve the crispy Chả Giò with the dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Spring Rolls!