What is rice paper?
Rice paper consists of thin, translucent sheets made from rice flour, tapioca starch, salt and water. They are sold dry and hard, but transform into soft, pliable sheets when dipped in water. Rice paper is at the heart of fresh Vietnamese spring rolls, also known as summer rolls, and is both gluten-free and low in calories. You'll find several sizes in our rice paper selection.
Fresh versus fried
Fresh spring rolls made with rice paper are rolled around raw vegetables, herbs, noodles and shrimp or tofu, and eaten cold with a dipping sauce. They differ from fried spring rolls, which use a thinner wheat-based wrapper and are fried until crispy. Both are delicious, but the fresh ones are light and refreshing — perfect when the weather is warm.
How to work with rice paper
- Fill a large bowl or plate with lukewarm water.
- Dip one sheet in the water for just 5 to 10 seconds. It should still feel slightly stiff, because it keeps softening while you work.
- Place the sheet on a damp surface.
- Place the filling in the lower third, fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
Tips for perfect rolls
The most common mistake is soaking the rice paper for too long. That makes it sticky and impossible to work with. Remember that it keeps softening after you take it out of the water. Don't overfill either, as the sheet tears easily. Place the prettiest ingredients, like shrimp or herbs, at the bottom so they show through the translucent paper.
Filling suggestions
- Rice noodles (vermicelli)
- Lettuce, cucumber and carrot cut into strips
- Fresh mint, cilantro and Thai basil
- Cooked shrimp, chicken or tofu
The dipping sauce
Serve with a peanut sauce or a Vietnamese nuoc cham made from fish sauce, lime, sugar, garlic and chili – see also our guide to fish sauce. The dip is what ties the whole experience together.
Get started with FUDI
At FUDI you'll find rice paper, rice noodles, fish sauce and dipping sauces – everything you need to make fresh spring rolls at home. They are healthy, colorful and perfect as a starter, lunch or a fresh tapas-style dish.
