Spring rolls, with their delicate rice paper wrappers and vibrant fillings, are a popular and versatile dish in Asian cuisine. For those following a plant-based lifestyle, the question arises: are spring rolls vegan?
Below, we’ll look at spring roll ingredients, explore vegan-friendly options, highlight potential non-vegan ingredients, and even guide you through making vegan spring rolls at home. You’ll be well on your way to savoring the delightful experience of vegan spring rolls!
Spring Roll Ingredients: Rice Paper Wrappers
Spring roll wrappers, typically made from rice flour, water, and salt, are naturally vegan. These thin, translucent sheets become pliable when soaked in water, making them perfect for encasing a variety of fillings. The simplicity of the wrapper ingredients makes spring rolls an excellent choice for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
Vegan-Friendly Spring Roll Fillings
Vegetables
A medley of fresh vegetables is a staple in vegan spring rolls. Carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, lettuce, and bean sprouts contribute a delightful crunch and vibrant colors.
Tofu
Cubes of firm or extra-firm tofu can be marinated and pan-fried or baked, offering a protein-rich and savory addition to vegan spring rolls.
Rice Noodles
Thin rice noodles, often called vermicelli or rice vermicelli, are a common vegan filling. They add texture and absorb the flavors of other ingredients.
Herbs
Fresh herbs such as mint, basil, and cilantro enhance the aroma and flavor profile of vegan spring rolls, creating a harmonious and aromatic blend.
Fruit (Optional)
For a unique twist, some may include fruits like mango or pineapple, adding a sweet and tangy element to the spring rolls.
Common Non-Vegan Ingredients in Spring Rolls
While spring rolls inherently have the potential to be vegan, you should be aware of common non-vegan ingredients that might find their way into certain variations. Most importantly, do spring rolls have meat?
Meat or Seafood
Traditional spring rolls may contain meat or seafood, such as shrimp or pork. It’s important to verify the filling ingredients, especially in restaurant or store-bought options.
Oyster Sauce or Fish Sauce
Some recipes or commercially prepared spring rolls may include oyster sauce or fish sauce, both of which are animal-derived. Opting for plant-based alternatives or making your own at home ensures a vegan-friendly choice.
Making Vegan Spring Rolls at Home
Crafting vegan spring rolls at home allows for customization and ensures that all ingredients align with your dietary choices. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Vegan Spring Roll Recipe
Ingredients:
- Rice paper wrappers
- Thin rice noodles (cooked)
- Tofu (firm or extra-firm, cubed and cooked)
- Carrots (julienned)
- Cucumber (julienned)
- Lettuce leaves
- Fresh mint and basil leaves
- Dipping sauce (soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or peanut sauce)
Instructions:
- Prepare all the filling ingredients and have them ready for assembly.
- Fill a shallow dish with warm water.
- Dip a rice paper wrapper into the water, ensuring it is fully immersed but not soaked for too long.
- Lay the wrapper on a clean surface.
- Place a small amount of each filling ingredient in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then fold the bottom and roll tightly.
- Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
- Serve the vegan spring rolls with your favorite dipping sauce.
Differentiating Between Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls
When buying from a store or ordering from a restaurant, you may need to distinguish between spring rolls and egg rolls, especially when seeking vegan options. While spring rolls use thin rice paper and are typically fresh or fried, egg rolls use a wheat-flour-based wrapper and are often deep-fried. Egg rolls commonly contain egg in the wrapper and may have meat-based fillings.
However, some restaurants, including The Vegan Joint will offer fried vegan spring rolls, as well.
Enjoying Vegan Spring Rolls
Whether you’re making them at home or enjoying them from The Vegan Joint, vegan spring rolls offer a delightful culinary experience. If you’re vegan, be mindful of potential non-vegan ingredients, opt for plant-based alternatives, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures that come with a plant-powered twist on this classic Asian dish.
If you’re in Los Angeles, you can find both fresh spring rolls and fried spring rolls—always completely vegan—at The Vegan Joint in DTLA, Woodland Hills, and Culver City.