Rolls with vegetables and soy sprouts

Rolls with vegetables and soy sprouts make for a delicious and healthy snack or light meal. These rolls are often inspired by fresh spring rolls or sushi rolls, and they're perfect for showcasing crisp vegetables and the subtle crunch of soy sprouts. Here's a simple recipe to make vegetable and soy sprout rolls:

Ingredients:

For the Rolls:

• 8 rice paper wrappers (or use nori sheets if you prefer sushi-style rolls)
• 1 cup soy sprouts (bean sprouts)
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 bell pepper (any color), julienned
• 1 cup shredded lettuce or baby spinach
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint, or basil (optional)

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

1. Prep Vegetables:

   • Julienne the carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper into thin strips.
   • If using avocado, slice it into thin strips.

2. Prepare Soy Sprouts:

   • Rinse the soy sprouts under cold water and drain them well.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

1. Mix Ingredients:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using).
   • Add sesame seeds if desired.

2. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your preference.

Assemble the Rolls:

1. Soften Rice Paper:

   • Fill a shallow dish with warm water.
   • Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable. Do not soak it too long, or it may become too soft to handle.

2. Layer Ingredients:

   • Lay the softened rice paper on a clean surface or a large plate.
   • In the center of the rice paper, place a small handful of shredded lettuce or baby spinach.
   • Add a few julienned carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, soy sprouts, and avocado slices (if using).
   • Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.

3. Roll:

   • Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll from the bottom up, tightly but gently, to form a log. Seal the edge by pressing it gently.

4. Repeat:

   • Repeat the process with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling ingredients.

Serve:

1. Arrange:

   • Arrange the rolls on a serving platter.

2. Serve with Sauce:

   • Serve with the dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips:

• Rice Paper Handling: Rice paper can be delicate, so handle it gently to avoid tearing.
• Fillings: Feel free to customize the rolls with other vegetables like radishes, shredded cabbage, or cooked protein like chicken or tofu if desired.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls ahead of time, but they are best served fresh. If making ahead, keep them covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.

These vegetable and soy sprout rolls are fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor. They’re perfect for a light meal or appetizer and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy!