Introduction

Vietnamese Herby Turmeric Fish Summer Rolls offer a delicious twist to traditional summer rolls. This recipe combines the freshness of herbs, the vibrant flavor of turmeric-infused fish, and a medley of crunchy vegetables, all wrapped up in delicate rice paper. Perfect for a light meal or as an appetizer, these rolls are not only satisfying but also visually appealing.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Fish:
– 1 pound of firm white fish fillets, such as cod or snapper
– 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

Herbs and Vegetables:
– 1 cup of fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup of shredded carrots
– 1 cup of sliced cucumber
– 1 cup of bean sprouts
– 8 rice paper wrappers

Dipping Sauce:
– 1/4 cup of hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon of water
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– Crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 summer rolls

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Fish

Cut the fish fillets into strips approximately 1 inch wide.

Marinate the Fish

In a bowl, combine turmeric, salt, and sugar. Add the fish strips and toss until they are evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Fish

In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated fish pieces. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish is golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Herbs and Vegetables

While the fish is cooling, rinse and dry the herbs and vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumber and set aside.

Soak Rice Paper

Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10-15 seconds until softened, then lay it flat on a damp surface.

Assemble the Summer Rolls

On the softened rice paper, place a few pieces of fish, followed by a handful of herbs, a few cucumber slices, and any additional vegetables desired.

Roll the Summer Rolls

Fold the sides of the rice paper inward, then carefully roll the wrapper away from you to encase the filling tightly. Repeat the process with remaining ingredients.

Serve

Cut the rolls in half diagonally and serve with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Notes

Fish Options

You can use any firm white fish for this recipe, such as cod or tilapia.

Herb Suggestions

Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and basil work well together for an aromatic flavor.

Vegetarian Option

To make a vegetarian version, replace the fish with tofu or additional vegetables.

Storage Advice

Summer rolls are best eaten fresh but can be covered with a damp cloth and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours if needed.

Cook techniques

Prep the fish

Carefully prepare the fish by marinating it with turmeric and other spices to infuse flavor. Cut the fish into appropriate sizes for easy wrapping later.

Cook the fish

Sauté the marinated fish in a hot skillet until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden crust. Ensure even cooking on all sides.

Prepare the summer rolls

Soften rice paper wrappers in warm water before filling them. Be gentle to avoid tearing, and lay them flat on a clean surface.

Assemble with herbs and vegetables

Layer fresh herbs, vegetables, and cooked fish on the softened rice paper. Be mindful of the arrangement to create a neat roll.

Rolling technique

Carefully roll the rice paper from the bottom, tucking in the filling as you go. Roll tightly but not too tightly to allow for expansion.

Serve with dipping sauce

Prepare a delicious dipping sauce to accompany the summer rolls. A mixture of hoisin and peanut sauce works wonderfully.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, feel free to substitute your preferred fish variety, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

How do I store leftover summer rolls?

Store leftover summer rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. They are best enjoyed fresh.

What can I use if I can’t find rice paper?

If rice paper is unavailable, you can try using thinly sliced cucumber or zucchini as a wrap alternative, but the texture will be different.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the fish and vegetables ahead of time and assemble the rolls just before serving for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely, substitute the fish with tofu or additional vegetables for a tasty vegetarian version.

Conclusion

The Vietnamese Herby Turmeric Fish Summer Rolls are a delightful and fresh option for a light meal or appetizer. The combination of turmeric marinated fish, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables wrapped in rice paper provides a burst of flavors that are both vibrant and healthy. Whether served as a main dish or a starter for gatherings, these rolls celebrate the essence of Vietnamese cuisine and are sure to impress with their bright colors and refreshing taste.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Shrimp Summer Rolls

Substitute the fish for grilled shrimp marinated in a spicy sauce. Add crunchy vegetables like cucumbers and carrots, along with fresh mint and cilantro for a flavorful kick.

Tofu and Avocado Summer Rolls

For a vegetarian version, use marinated tofu and creamy avocado slices. Fill the rolls with mixed greens and fresh herbs for a satisfying and healthy dish.

Mango and Chicken Summer Rolls

Incorporate grilled chicken with sweet mango slices and fresh mint. The sweetness of the mango complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Beef and Herb Summer Rolls

Use thinly sliced beef, marinated in soy sauce and garlic, paired with fresh basil and mint. The vibrant flavors of beef and herbs make these rolls deliciously aromatic.

Quinoa and Vegetable Summer Rolls

For a grain-based option, include cooked quinoa with a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, and shredded carrots for added texture and nutrition.