Hello everyone! Welcome to Paulina Cocina and to a new episode of these in which we talk about different dishes around the world that we all love. Today we are going to talk about Spring rollsan Asian specialty that has captivated people all over the world.
Spring rolls are part of traditional cuisine with a long and interesting history. (and yes, they are oriental) and they are also super versatile and adaptable to the tastes and requirements of the consumer. That is why its popularity has spread throughout the world.
They have been enjoyed for centuries in China and have evolved over time, spreading to other cultures and regions of Asia, where they have also acquired their own variations and names. We have a lot of information about it so fasten your seat belts that we are going on a trip.
About the spring rolls
A little history about spring rolls
Spring rolls have a long history in China. and are believed to date back to the Han dynasty, more than 1,800 years ago. The reason behind the name “spring roll” It is related to the Chinese tradition. The invention cannot be attributed to a specific person, since they are part of the traditional Chinese gastronomy that, as we know, is very prolific.
These rolls were originally prepared during the celebrations of the Spring Party, which marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year and the arrival of spring. Therefore, the scrolls received the name of “chūnjuǎn” (春卷) what does spring rolls mean to commemorate this holiday.
spring roll versions
The most popular version outside of China is the Vietnamese. Vietnamese rolls, known as “spring rolls” o “spring rolls”They are different in terms of ingredients and style of wrapper. They are characterized by being fresh, wrapped in rice paper and usually contain fresh herbs and shrimp.
Another version are the rolls japanesealso known as “harumaki” o “spring maki” where Japanese dough can be different in texture and flavor, as tempura dough or special wheat flour dough is often used.
Apart from these versions, spring rolls also have variants in other parts of Asia. For example, in Thailand they are called “poh pia tod” and usually contain glass noodles and tofu. Each region has its own culinary influences and ingredient preferences.
Characteristics of the original recipe for spring rolls
- Spring rolls usually have a filling made from vegetables and meat or seafood. The most common vegetables are cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, bean sprouts, and chives. You can chop the ingredients in juliana or in pieces. To add protein, include chicken, pork, shrimp, etc-
- Spring rolls are wrapped in sheets of thin dough made from wheat flour. The dough is filled with the mixture of ingredients and rolled into a cylinder. Be sure to seal the ends well with a mixture of flour and water to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
- Homemade spring rolls can be cooked in different ways. The most common option is to fry in hot oil. You can also bake them in the oven for a healthier version with less fat. Some people also steam them for a lighter option.
- Spring rolls are often served with a variety of sauces to enhance their flavor. Some popular options include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, peanut sauce, plum sauce, or chili sauce. Choose the sauces that you like the most or experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
How can spring rolls be served?
Spring rolls can be served as the main dish at a meal. They are usually placed on a plate or tray and presented in their original form, either fried or baked. They are often accompanied with dipping sauces. They are also popular as an aperitif. They are usually served in smaller portions and presented on individual plates or on a sharing platter. They can be part of a selection of starters in a restaurant or at a party.
At buffet events, spring rolls can be served on a large platter or in individual containers. Diners can take the rolls to their liking and accompany them with the sauces available on the table.
A fresh and healthy option is serve the spring rolls wrapped in lettuce leaves. They are placed on a lettuce leaf and rolled before eating. This adds an extra crunch and a different texture to enjoying them.
Since Spring Rolls can be served as plato principal or aperitifcan be accompanied with other elements such as rice salads, depending on the context. If served with sauces, these can be served in small individual dishes or as a garnish directly on the plate.
Homemade Spring Rolls Recipe
Yield: 12 rolls
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 sheets of spring roll dough (you can find these in Asian stores or supermarkets)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 grated carrot
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 4 mushrooms, chopped
- 2 chopped chives
- 200 gr of minced pork or chicken
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 minced garlic clove
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make spring rolls
- In a large skillet heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add meat and cook until browned and cooked through. Add shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, bean sprouts, mushrooms, chives, shredded ginger, and minced garlic. Cook until tender, but still crisp.
- Pour in the soy sauce, season to taste and stir well to combine the ingredients. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool before starting to fill the rolls.
- Place a sheet of dough on a flat surface and add a portion of the filling mixture in the center. Fold the left and right sides in, then roll the roll to the front, making sure it is well sealed. Repeat until you have used all the ingredients.
- In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over high heat for frying. Place the rolls in the hot oil and fry until golden and crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Flip so they brown evenly.
- Remove the spring rolls from the oil and place on absorbent paper to remove excess fat. Serve them hot.
Source: www.paulinacocina.net
