Summer Rolls (Gỏi cuốn)

Vietnamese summer rolls, commonly known as Vietnamese salad rolls or Gỏi cuốn, is a delightful culinary creation that combines the freshness of a salad with the flavors and textures of savory ingredients.

The preparation of gỏi cuốn involves wrapping soaked rice paper (bánh tráng) around a variety of enticing ingredients. While meat or seafood options like beef, pork, shrimp, or crab meat are commonly used, the true stars of these rolls are the assortment of crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs, such as mint, cilantro, cucumbers, and mushrooms. The addition of rice vermicelli noodles provides a satisfying texture and helps to balance the flavors.

What makes gỏi cuốn truly special is the combination of flavors and the interactive dining experience it offers. These rolls are typically served at room temperature or chilled, making them a refreshing choice during hot summer days.

Accompanying gỏi cuốn is a selection of dipping sauces that further enhance the taste. The classic choices include nước chấm, a tangy fish sauce-based dip, peanut sauce, or hoisin sauce. These sauces add a delightful depth of flavor and create a harmonious balance when paired with the rolls.

It is worth noting that gỏi cuốn has received international acclaim for its irresistible appeal. In fact, these Vietnamese rolls were recognized by CNN in their prestigious list of the world's 50 best foods, a testament to their global popularity and recognition as a culinary treasure.