Spring packages with chili sauce

Spring rolls with chili sauce, a delicacy that combines the freshness of vegetables with bold flavors, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to prepare them plain or add smoked salmon for an extra touch of flavor, these rolls are not only tasty but also easy to make. Let's explore together step by step how to create the most delicious spring rolls!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the spring rolls:
- 1 cup of sweet or Chinese cabbage
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1 carrot
- 3 leaves of green lettuce
- 1 onion
- 1 cup of cooked rice (preferably Thai Jasmine rice)
- 2 tablespoons of rice oil
- 1 piece of ginger (about the size of a coin)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of "5 spice" seasoning
- 3 pieces of mushrooms of your choice (dehydrated shiitake mushrooms are excellent)
- Rice paper
- Coconut fat (for frying)
- Himalayan or sea salt
- Smoked salmon (optional)

For the sauce:
- 1 cup of tomatoes in juice (Cirio)
- A pinch of coriander seeds
- A dash of turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Pepper
- Salt
- Chili to taste

Preparing the rolls

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the cabbage and grating the carrot. The onion, garlic, and ginger can be grated or finely chopped. Cut the zucchini lengthwise into strips with a vegetable knife, then chop it finely. If using Chinese mushrooms, be sure to dehydrate them according to the package instructions, then chop them into small pieces.

2. Cooking the rice: In a pot, add one cup of rice and two and a half cups of water. Simmer on low heat until the water completely evaporates. Finally, lightly salt the rice to taste. This will be the delicious base for your rolls.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of rice oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then add the chopped vegetables along with the "5 spice" seasoning. Let everything cook on low heat for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Finalizing the mixture: Once the vegetables have softened, add the soy sauce and mix well. Season to taste. Finally, incorporate the cooked rice into the vegetable mixture, gently stirring to avoid mashing the ingredients.

Filling the rolls

5. Preparing the rice papers: In a bowl, soak the rice papers in cold water for 2-3 minutes until they become flexible. Then place a sheet on a clean surface and add a portion of the vegetable mixture and, if desired, a few strips of smoked salmon.

6. Wrapping: Fold the edges of the rice paper over the filling and roll tightly to form a package. Make sure it is well sealed so that the filling does not come out during cooking.

Cooking the rolls

7. Cooking the rolls: You can choose between two methods to cook the spring rolls. Either fry them in a pan with coconut fat, palm oil, olive oil, or rice oil until golden, or bake them in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius until they are nicely browned. Both methods provide a delicious and crispy texture.

Preparing the sauce

8. Tomato sauce: In a blender, combine one cup of tomatoes in juice (Cirio) with a pinch of coriander seeds, a dash of turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, pepper, and salt to taste. Add chili to preference for a spicy sauce. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Serving and variations

9. Serving: Place the spring rolls on a platter and serve them warm, alongside your delicious sauce. These rolls can be a perfect appetizer for a dinner with friends or a healthy snack for a party.

Tips and tricks

- Ingredients: You can experiment with different vegetables or add tofu for a vegetarian option. Also, using smoked salmon adds a refined touch, but you can substitute it with cooked chicken or shrimp for another tasty option.

- Cooking the rice: Ensure that the rice is well cooked, as this will help bind the ingredients together.

- Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the mixture.

Nutritional benefits

Spring rolls are an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Cabbage, carrots, and zucchini are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. A balanced meal rich in vegetables and proteins can have a caloric content of approximately 350-450 calories per serving, depending on the chosen ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of vegetables?
Yes, you can use any preferred vegetables. Peppers, broccoli, or peas are excellent options.

- How can I make these rolls vegan?
You can omit the salmon and add tofu or more vegetables.

- How can I store the rolls?
Spring rolls can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 1-2 days. Reheat them before serving.

These spring rolls with chili sauce are not only an explosion of flavors but also a fun way to enjoy cooking. So, prepare your ingredients and enjoy this quick and simple recipe, perfect for any occasion!