Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a popular food in many Asian countries. They are made by wrapping vegetables, meat, or shrimp in a thin wrapper. Some spring rolls are fried until crispy, while others are served fresh and uncooked. Spring rolls are eaten as snacks, appetizers, or part of a meal.

Types of Spring Rolls

There are two main types of spring rolls. Fried spring rolls have a crispy, golden wrapper and are popular in Chinese and Southeast Asian cooking. Fresh spring rolls, also called summer rolls, use soft rice paper wrappers and are not cooked. Vietnamese fresh spring rolls are filled with shrimp, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. Both types are usually served with a dipping sauce.

Spring Rolls Around Asia

Different Asian countries have their own versions of spring rolls. Chinese spring rolls are fried and filled with cabbage and pork. Vietnamese spring rolls can be fresh or fried. Filipino lumpia are thin, crispy fried rolls. Thai spring rolls often include glass noodles and vegetables. The name "spring roll" comes from the tradition of eating them during the Spring Festival in China.

Fun Facts

• Spring rolls got their name because they were traditionally eaten during the Chinese Spring Festival.
• In the Philippines, spring rolls are called lumpia and are a party favorite.
• Rice paper used for fresh spring rolls is made from rice flour and water.

Did You Know?

Chinese spring rolls have been eaten for over 1,000 years and were originally a spring festival treat!