According to Tasting Table, with its fresh and contrasting flavors, Asian cuisine offers a multitude of nuances, and one of the renowned dishes is Vietnamese rice paper rolls.
Overview of Rice Paper Rolls
In Vietnam, everyone is familiar with rice paper rolls, but few know that this dish has been honored with the title “Distinctive Regional Culinary Value” by the Asian Record Organization. However, not everyone is aware of the origins and significance of this dish.
Brief Overview of the Origin and Characteristics of Rice Paper Rolls
Many tourists, armed with a culinary guide to Vietnamese cuisine, often wonder about the difference between rice paper rolls and spring rolls. In reality, there isn’t a specific definition for this dish, as the term is commonly used for a dish that primarily involves rice paper and various fillings, served with dipping sauce.
This dish is typically used as an appetizer or a light snack alongside various beverages. Regarding its origin, there is no clear and specific information about its popularity nationwide. Additionally, there is no fixed recipe for this dish, as different regions and localities use varying ingredients.
Currently, rice paper rolls are considered a shining star in the list of Vietnam’s culinary treasures, embraced by international friends. Moreover, with its simple preparation, this dish has successfully spread worldwide. While there may be certain differences in each country, the original form is still preserved.
The Significance of Rice Paper Rolls
For those not deeply versed in culinary studies, understanding the significance of rice paper rolls might be challenging. In reality, it is not just a dish that brings together various flavors and provides nutritional value; it also carries positive meanings.
Firstly, when enjoying rice paper rolls, people often gather around a common set of ingredients, allowing them to simultaneously eat, roll, and engage in conversation. This dish is seen as a symbol of unity with family and friends.
In traditional families, this dish is considered a way to showcase elegance, tradition, and the cleverness of the daughters. Rolling a perfectly round rice paper roll requires delicacy and precision. Furthermore, the widespread popularity of this dish acts as a “brand ambassador,” promoting Vietnamese cuisine worldwide.
What’s in Rice Paper Rolls?
After understanding the origin and significance of rice paper rolls, many curious travelers may wonder about the ingredients of this dish. Rice paper rolls are a refreshing appetizer that awakens the senses before indulging in main courses. It has become a familiar dish for the people of Vietnam, praised for its ease of consumption, especially when dipped in various accompanying fish sauces, providing a distinctive flavor.
According to author Peggy Aoki, rice paper rolls are not only delicious but are also often paired with vermicelli or various fresh vegetables. To begin with, chefs must choose the best rice paper. Many recipes include instructions to moisten the rice paper to make it soft and easier to roll by soaking it in water.
Usually, rice paper is made from finely ground white rice mixed with enough water to create a smooth, thin mixture, steamed and dried. To have enough time to arrange the filling ingredients and fold them into a perfectly tight and attractive roll, cool water is used to moisten the rice paper. Water absorbs more slowly through the paper, making it softer and providing a suitable texture for rolling.
Rice paper rolls typically consist of a thin layer of rice paper combined with fillings such as pork, beef, or seafood like shrimp and crab, according to personal preferences. Notably, rice paper rolls do not require frying; the fillings are cooked, and various herbs and spices are wrapped in moistened rice paper and served with garlic chili fish sauce or peanut butter hoisin sauce, soy sauce, or fermented fish sauce. Rice paper rolls are often enjoyed in the summer, offering a refreshing and light sensation. Depending on different regions, the accompanying spices may vary to suit the taste preferences of the local residents. Vietnam has long been known worldwide for its incredibly diverse cuisine. Rice paper rolls were ranked among the top 50 delicious dishes globally by CNN at the end of 2019, alongside other renowned names such as Italian risotto and Wagyu beef.
Furthermore, SBS, when evaluating Vietnamese cuisine in Australia, described rice paper rolls as an enticing and distinctive dish that could make Vietnamese people proud. Notably, this dish has become a favorite of many Hallyu idols, including Park Bo Gum, Lisa, and Rosé from Blackpink, ChanYeol from IZ*ONE, and Sana from TWICE. Once the ingredients are arranged, start folding the edges of the rice paper and roll it tightly into a cylindrical shape. Dip it into your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy this non-satiating summer roll.
Although it may appear simple, the technique and creativity in this dish bring a perfect balance between texture and contrasting flavors, turning it into an art form and a nutritious delight.