If you are carving a quick and delicious spring roll with a spicy kick, you can try this Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls. This spring roll recipe is a perfect speedy solution for a spicy treat and is a real game changer.
These are a fusion of vibrant flavors and textures, bringing together the heat of spicy noodles with the freshness of spring rolls. Imagine the flavor fusion of spicy rice/soba noodles, vibrant veggies along Thai basil leaves folded together in rice paper.
You can also enjoy your delicious Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls with a tangy teriyaki sauce, to make these rolls a tantalizing treat for your taste buds.
You can try our more related recipes like Air Fryer Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls, Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza Rolls, Authentic Pakistani Chicken Corn Soup (Chinese Style).
WHAT ARE NOODLE SPRING ROLLS?
Noodle spring rolls are a delightful fusion of fresh spring rolls and noodles, typically made with rice paper wrappers filled with cooked noodles, crunchy vegetables, and often herbs or protein.
These rolls are versatile and customizable, allowing for a variety of fillings and flavor combinations. They are usually served chilled or at room temperature, accompanied by a dipping sauce such as chili lime sauce, spicy peanut sauce, or sweet chili sauce. Noodle spring rolls are popular in Asian cuisine and are enjoyed as appetizers, light meals, or party snacks.
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS
- Ease and Accessibility: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can effortlessly create these delicious Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls in your kitchen.
- Customizable Heat: Tailor the level of spiciness to your preference. Whether you enjoy subtle warmth or crave an intense kick, you have the freedom to adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options: If you’re looking for a light and refreshing lunch, a flavorful appetizer for guests, or a satisfying snack, these spicy noodle spring rolls fit the bill. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed on any occasion, making them a go-to recipe for any time of day.
INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED
- Rice Paper Wrappers: You will need 8 sheets of rice paper wrappers, thin and translucent wraps that encase the flavorful filling, providing the perfect vessel for these spring rolls.
- Rice Noodles: You will need 2 bundles of Rice Thin noodles that soak up the spicy seasoning, adding a satisfying chewiness to each bite.
- Lettuce: Lettuce leaves are often used as wrappers for rice noodle spring rolls. They provide a crisp texture and fresh flavor to complement the soft rice noodles and other fillings inside the rolls.
- Red Bell Pepper: You will need 1 pepper, thinly sliced. Sweet and crunchy pepper slices that bring a pop of color and freshness to the filling.
- Carrot: You will need 1 Julienned carrot to add a vibrant orange hue and a satisfying crunch to the filling.
- Cucumber: You will need 1 cucumber strips provide a cool contrast to the spicy noodles, enhancing the overall texture of the spring rolls.
- Green Onions: You will need 2 stalks; thinly sliced green onions impart a mild onion flavor and a subtle bite to the filling.
- Cilantro: You will need ¼ cup Fresh cilantro leaves contribute a burst of herbal freshness, elevating the flavor profile of the spring rolls.
- Thai Basil Leaves (optional): You will need ¼ cup of fragrant basil leaves to add a hint of anise-like flavor, enhancing the aromatic complexity of the filling.
- Sesame Oil: You will need 1 tbsp Aromatic oil that coats the noodles, infusing them with a rich nuttiness and enhancing their overall flavor.
- Soy Sauce: You will need 1 tbsp soy sauce that adds a savory depth and umami richness to the noodles, enhancing their overall taste.
- Sriracha Sauce: You will need 1 tbsp Sriracha Sauce to provide a fiery kick of heat that elevates the flavor profile of the noodles, adding a spicy dimension to the filling.
- Teriyaki Sauce: You will need Tangy and sweet sauce for dipping, offering a perfect balance to the spicy noodles and fresh vegetables.
- Sesame seeds and Mint leaves
EASY STEPS TO MAKE SPICY NOODLE SPRING ROLLS RECIPE
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the Rice Noodles: Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the thin rice noodles into a large pot of water and cook according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture. This usually takes about 4-6 minutes, but be sure to check the package for specific times.
Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and prevents the noodles from sticking together.
Season the Noodles: Transfer the cooked and drained noodles to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with sesame oil, which adds a delicious nutty flavor and helps prevent the noodles from sticking. Next, add soy sauce for a savory umami kick, and sriracha sauce for that spicy punch.
Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your preference for heat, whether you prefer subtle warmth or a fiery kick.
Toss the noodles gently until they are evenly coated in the seasoning. Set the seasoned noodles aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling Ingredients
Slice the Vegetables: Wash and prepare the vegetables for the filling. Start by thinly slicing the red bell pepper and green onions. Then, julienne the carrot and cucumber into thin strips. These colorful vegetables not only add visual appeal but also provide a satisfying crunch to the spring rolls.
Rinse the cilantro and Thai basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. These aromatic herbs will enhance the flavor profile of the spring rolls.
Step 3: Soften the Rice Paper Wrappers
Prepare a Work Surface: Before softening the rice paper wrappers, set up your work area. Fill a shallow dish or large plate with warm water. Having the warm water nearby will make the process of softening the wrappers much easier and quicker.
Soak the Rice Paper Wrappers: Working with one rice wrapper at a time, carefully submerge it in the warm water.
Hold it under the water for about 15-20 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Be mindful not to soak the wrapper for too long, as it may become too delicate and difficult to handle.
Once softened, carefully lift the rice paper wrapper out of the water and place it flat onto your work surface.
Step 4: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Add the Filling: Now comes the fun part – assembling the spring rolls! Begin by placing a lettuce leaf first in the center of the rice paper wrapper.
Now put a small portion of the seasoned noodles in the center of the lettuce. Spread them out into a thin layer, leaving some space around the edges for folding.
Next, add a few slices of red bell pepper, julienned sliced carrots and cucumber, sliced green onions, and a few sprigs of cilantro and Thai basil leaves for added freshness and flavor.
Roll the Spring Roll: To roll the spring roll, start by folding the bottom edge of the spring roll wrappers over the filling.
Then, fold in the sides towards the center. Continue rolling tightly until the filling is completely enclosed, forming a neat cylinder-shaped spring roll.
Repeat the process with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling ingredients until you’ve used them all.
Step 5: Serve with Teriyaki Sauce
Plate the Spring Rolls: Arrange the finished spring rolls on a serving platter or individual plates, ready to be enjoyed. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and mint leaves for garnishing.
Serve with Teriyaki Sauce: For the perfect finishing touch, serve the spicy fire noodles spring rolls with teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping.
Alternatively, you can drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the spring rolls just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy these delicious and flavorful spring rolls as a light and satisfying appetizer, snack, or main course!
STORAGE & REHEATING:
Store any leftover Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
To reheat, briefly dip them in warm water to soften the rice paper before serving.
DIFFERENT COOKING METHODS
Boiling Method: To boil the rice noodles, simply bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes until al dente.
After draining and rinsing the noodles, toss them in a mixture of sesame oil, soy sauce, and sriracha for a flavorful base. This method results in soft and tender noodles that absorb the seasoning beautifully, making them a perfect match for the spring roll filling.
Steaming Method: For steaming, soak the rice noodles in boiling water for 5-7 minutes until softened and fully cooked.
Once drained and cooled, toss the noodles with sesame oil, soy sauce, and sriracha to infuse them with flavor. This technique yields noodles with a soft and slightly chewy texture, providing a delightful contrast to the fresh vegetable filling inside the spring rolls.
Stir-Frying Method: If you prefer a more textured noodle base, opt for stir-frying.
Heat sesame oil in a skillet or wok, then stir-fry the rice noodles until they’re heated through and slightly crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Drizzle with soy sauce and sriracha for added flavor. This method creates noodles with a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the spring rolls.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Additions: Amp up the protein content of your Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls by adding cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, sliced tofu, or thinly sliced strips of beef or pork.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: For a vegetarian or vegan version, skip the meat and opt for additional vegetables or plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh.
- Fruit Additions: Add a touch of sweetness and freshness to your spring rolls by incorporating slices of ripe mango, avocado, or papaya into the filling.
- Different Dipping Sauces: While teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with these Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls, you can also experiment with other spicy sauce for added variety.
HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVES: BALANCING TASTE AND NUTRITION
Whole Grain Noodles: Opt for whole grain or brown rice noodles instead of traditional white rice noodles to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients to your Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls.
More Vegetables: Load up your spring rolls with extra vegetables to boost the nutritional value and add more vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your meal. Experiment with a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, cucumber, spinach, kale, and shredded cabbage for added flavor and texture.
Lean Protein Options: Choose lean protein sources such as grilled chicken breast, baked tofu, or steamed shrimp instead of fried or fatty meats to keep your spicy noodles spring rolls lighter and lower in calories. Lean proteins are high in protein and low in saturated fat.
SERVING OPTIONS
- Arrange the Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls on a large platter alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as teriyaki, peanut, and sweet chili sauce.
- Pack the Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls into individual lunch boxes or bento boxes for a convenient and portable meal on the go.
- Serve the Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls on a bed of mixed greens or shredded lettuce for a refreshing and light salad wrap.
- Create a vibrant and colorful party platter featuring an assortment of Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls, fresh vegetable crudites, and colorful fruit skewers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make these spicy noodles spring rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the spring rolls a few hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, placing a damp paper towel between each layer to prevent them from drying out.
However, it’s best to wait until just before serving to add any dipping sauces to prevent the wrappers from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze the spicy noodles spring rolls?
While it’s possible to freeze the assembled spring rolls, the texture of the rice paper wrappers may become soggy and less appetizing upon thawing.
If you do choose to freeze them, it’s recommended to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for long-term storage. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.
What are some alternative dipping sauces I can use?
In addition to teriyaki sauce, you can try dipping your spicy noodles spring rolls in peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, or a tangy lime dipping sauce. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.
Can I use different vegetables in the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Some options include sliced avocado, shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, julienned mango, or baby spinach. Get creative and mix and match to create your perfect spring roll combination.
Are these spicy noodles spring rolls gluten-free?
While the filling ingredients themselves are gluten-free, you’ll need to check the labels of your soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and any other condiments used to ensure they are gluten-free. Additionally, be sure to use gluten-free rice paper wrappers for a completely gluten-free option.
Can I make these spicy noodles spring rolls without spicy ingredients?
Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference or omit the spicy ingredients altogether if you prefer a milder flavor. Simply reduce or omit the sriracha sauce and adjust the amount of other seasonings to taste. You can also customize the filling with non-spicy vegetables and herbs for a mild and refreshing version of the spring rolls.
Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 sheeets rice paper wrappers
- 2 bundles rice noodles
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- sriracha sauce
- Teriyaki sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Noodles Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a mixing bowl. Toss the cooked noodles with sesame oil, soy sauce, and sriracha sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Filling IngredientsThinly slice the red bell pepper and green onions. Julienne the carrot and cucumber into thin strips. Rinse the cilantro and Thai basil leaves under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 3: Soften the Rice Paper WrappersFill a shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper at a time until softened, about 15-20 seconds. Place on a clean work surface.
- Step 4: Assemble the Spring RollsPlace a small portion of seasoned noodles in the center of each softened rice paper wrapper. Top with slices of red bell pepper, julienned carrot and cucumber, green onions, and a few sprigs of cilantro and Thai basil leaves. Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
- Step 5: Serve with Teriyaki SauceArrange the spring rolls on a serving platter or plate. Serve with teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts at rolling Spicy Noodles Spring Rolls aren’t flawless.
- Customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or protein options.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less sriracha sauce to the noodles.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and rice paper wrappers.
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g