Fake Nems (Spring rolls with vegetables)

Captivating Fake Nems Recipe – Spring Rolls with Vegetables

Discover a delicious and quick alternative to classic spring rolls! These Fake Nems are a creative reinterpretation, using pastry sheets instead of rice paper. I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure, where we will transform simple ingredients into crispy and flavorful snacks.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 8 pastry sheets
- 600 g white cabbage
- 180 g carrots
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- Sunflower oil (for brushing and frying)
- 2-3 tablespoons light soy sauce
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

Recipe history
Spring rolls have their origins in various culinary cultures, symbolizing freshness and spring. Over time, they have been adapted based on available ingredients and local preferences. Fake Nems bring a personal and innovative touch, ideal for those who want to try a quick and tasty recipe without making a special trip to the store.

Step by step – Preparing Fake Nems

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by preparing the vegetables. Grate the cabbage, then wash and peel the carrots, which you will also grate. If you have a food processor handy, this step will be even quicker! The grated vegetables will be easier to fill and will add a pleasant texture to your rolls.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a wok, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and heat it well. Add the grated vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously. This process will intensify the flavors and soften the vegetables, making them easier to roll. Finally, add salt, pepper, and 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Mix well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.

3. Preparing the pastry sheets
Cut each pastry sheet into 4 squares. This will allow you to create smaller rolls, perfect for serving. Take 2 sheets and brush them with a little sunflower oil to make them more pliable.

4. Filling and rolling
Place a tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of each pastry square. Twist the edges to form a well-sealed packet. If you want to ensure they don’t come apart while frying, you can brush the edges with egg white. Personally, I skipped this step, but I used a spatula to keep them submerged in oil during frying.

5. Frying the Fake Nems
In the same wok or a deep pan, heat the sunflower oil. When the oil is hot, add the vegetable packets. Fry them for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden and crispy on all sides. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even frying.

6. Serving
Once the Fake Nems are ready, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve them hot, alongside a spicy Chinese sauce for an explosion of flavors. This sauce will add a pleasant contrast and turn every bite into a memorable experience!

Useful tips
- For a healthier option, you can bake the packets in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes until golden.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or green onions, to create delicious combinations.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, add a little grated ginger or chili pepper to the vegetable mixture.

Nutritional benefits
Fake Nems are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the vegetables used. Cabbage is rich in antioxidants, and carrots are a good source of beta-carotene. These packets are ideal for a healthy snack or as an appetizer at a festive meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of sheets?
Yes! You can use tortilla sheets or pizza dough for a different version.
2. Can I prepare them in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the packets and freeze them, frying them later when you crave them.
3. What other sauces can they be served with?
These Fake Nems pair perfectly with sauces like sweet and sour sauce or peanut sauce.

Original version
If you feel adventurous, you can also add proteins, such as tofu or finely chopped chicken, to the vegetable mixture to turn them into a main dish. These Fake Nems are not just a snack; they can become a complete meal, offering a variety of textures and flavors.

I hope you enjoyed this captivating recipe and found inspiration to prepare Fake Nems at home! I wish you great success in the kitchen and hope you return with stories about how they turned out. Enjoy your meal!