In celebration of Spring I wanted to make Spring Rolls.  Every time I go to the Asian Fusion restaurant nearby I absolutely must order the spring rolls.  I love how simple and fresh they are. Plus it’s a yummy way to get your raw on.

How hard could it be to make at home?  Its fresh, raw vegetables wrapped up.  Yea, it was actually a bit harder then that.  The real difficulty is how to get them as pretty as the one’s I get out.  Well, after many tries I was able to get them close to what I have seen, but no cigar.  Oh well.

When wrapping these babies up you have to work quickly.  Make a nice work station for yourself.  You will need a large bowl of water, all your fillings laid out, a platter for the completed rolls, and a towel.

Be sure to cut the vegetables in small enough pieces so that they fit in the roll, with an inch on each end for folding.  Play around with a wrap before cutting everything.  Also, be sure to wipe your area dry every so often, it helps everything run smoother.

The Spicy Peanut sauce is the perfect condiment for dipping.  Definitely make it.  I served up a side of steamed edamame for some protein.  It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Spring Rolls with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Makes about 12 rolls (depending on how much you stuff them)

  • 15 rice spring roll wrappers (or more, you will most likley rip a few so have more then you think you need)
  • 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and cut
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • ½ mango, cut into ribbons
  • 2 carrots peeled and cut using a vegetable peeler
  • 2 tbls thinly sliced basil
  • Spicy Peanut Sauce (recipe follows)

Set up your work space.  This is vital!

Working one at a time, dip wrapper in water once or twice.  Shake (very) lightly to remove extra water.  Place on a flat surface.  In the center, place lettuce first then one or two slices each of pepper, mango, and carrot.  Sprinkle on some basil.  Tuck ends in, and roll up.  Think burrito

Your first one is going to be ugly, embarrassing even.  Laugh it off and keep trying.  I promise you after a few tries you will get the hang of the slippery buggers.

Spicy Peanut Sauce

  • ¼ cup peanut butter
  • ½ cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tbls soy sauce
  • 2 tsp lime juice
  • ½ tsp hot sauce

In a small sauce pan, over low heat, combine all ingredients.  Mix until peanut butter melts and the sauce is smooth.  That’s it, seriously, you’re done!

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