Rice paper is a versatile ingredient that is widely used in cooking for various purposes. It is a delicate and translucent paper-like substance made from rice flour and water. Although called rice paper, it does not actually contain any paper. Instead, it is made by spreading a thin layer of the rice flour mixture on a screen or cloth and drying it to form a thin, flexible sheet.
Rice paper is commonly used in Asian cuisines, particularly in Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese dishes. It is not only popular for its unique texture but also for its multifunctional culinary uses. From spring rolls to desserts, rice paper adds a special touch to a wide range of dishes. In this article, we will explore the various ways rice paper is used in cooking and how it enhances the flavors and presentation of different cuisines.
1. Spring Rolls and Summer Rolls
One of the most common applications of rice paper is in making spring rolls and summer rolls. These are popular appetizers or light meals that consist of various fillings tightly wrapped in a sheet of rice paper. The rice paper acts as a wrapper, holding the ingredients together and adding a delightful chewy texture. It is typically soaked in water briefly to soften before wrapping the fillings. The fillings may include vegetables, herbs, shrimp, chicken, or tofu, providing a fresh and healthy option for those seeking lighter fare.
a. Fresh Spring Rolls
Fresh spring rolls, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls or salad rolls, are a refreshing and nutritious dish. The translucent rice paper allows the vibrant colors of the ingredients to shine through, making it visually appealing. These rolls are often filled with a combination of lettuce, vermicelli noodles, herbs like Thai basil, mint, and cilantro, as well as cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. They are commonly served with a dipping sauce, such as a peanut sauce or a nuoc cham sauce, which adds a burst of tangy or savory flavors.
b. Fried Spring Rolls
Fried spring rolls, on the other hand, offer a different cooking technique and taste profile. The rice paper acts as a wrapper that becomes wonderfully crispy when deep-fried, creating a delightful contrast with the flavorful fillings. The fillings for fried spring rolls may include ground pork, mushrooms, carrots, bean sprouts, and onions, all mixed together with seasonings like soy sauce and garlic. These crispy delights are often served as appetizers, and their popularity extends beyond Asian cuisine.
2. Noodle Wraps and Rice Noodle Rolls
Rice paper is also an essential ingredient in various noodle wraps and rice noodle rolls. These dishes often feature delicate rice noodles wrapped or rolled in rice paper. The rice paper acts as a vehicle for the noodles and other flavorful ingredients, ensuring that they remain intact and easy to devour. Let’s explore two popular dishes that incorporate rice paper in different ways.
a. Vietnamese Broken Rice Wrap (Banh Trang Tron)
Banh Trang Tron is a Vietnamese street food delicacy that showcases the versatility of rice paper. This dish consists of broken rice noodles, fried shallots, herbs, pickled vegetables, and a selection of toppings, such as dried shrimp or beef jerky. Instead of using whole rice paper sheets, small pieces of rice paper are torn off and mixed with the ingredients to create a unique and crunchy texture. The rice paper absorbs the flavors of the sauce and toppings while still providing a satisfying chewiness.
b. Rice Noodle Rolls (Cheung Fun)
Rice noodle rolls, also known as Cheung Fun, are a Cantonese delicacy commonly found in dim sum restaurants. These silky and translucent rolls are made by steaming a thin layer of rice noodle batter on a flat surface, similar to making crepes. The steamed rice noodle sheets are then rolled with various fillings, such as shrimp, char siu (barbecue pork), or crispy fried dough. The rolls are typically served with a sweet soy sauce or hoisin sauce, adding a harmonious blend of flavors to this beloved dish.
3. Desserts
Believe it or not, rice paper is not limited to savory dishes; it is also a key ingredient in several delightful desserts. Whether it’s creating a crispy element or providing a delicate wrapper, rice paper adds a unique touch to a variety of sweet treats.
a. Vietnamese Rice Paper Candy (Keo Bong Bong)
Keo Bong Bong is a popular Vietnamese candy that children and adults alike enjoy. It consists of small, crunchy, and bite-sized treats made from caramelized sugar and rice paper. The rice paper is coated with a sticky caramel, giving each candy a satisfying crunch. The candies are often flavored with coconut or peanuts, enhancing the overall experience with their sweet and nutty notes.
b. Thai Mango Sticky Rice
In Thailand, rice paper is used to present the beloved dessert known as Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang). This delicious dessert consists of sweet glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and served with slices of fresh mango. To elevate the presentation, a piece of rice paper is folded into a cone shape and filled with the mango sticky rice. The rice paper adds a delicate and visually appealing touch to the dish, making it even more enticing.
Conclusion
Rice paper is a versatile ingredient that has become a staple in many kitchens around the world. Its ability to enhance the texture and presentation of dishes makes it a favorite choice for both savory and sweet creations. From spring rolls and summer rolls to noodle wraps and desserts, rice paper offers endless possibilities in the culinary world. So, next time you encounter rice paper, embrace its multifunctional uses and let your creativity run wild in the kitchen.