Asian Spring Roll Bowl

A vibrant, fresh bowl inspired by classic Asian spring rolls, featuring crisp vegetables, tender rice noodles, and a creamy peanut sauce—all deconstructed for easy assembly and maximum flavor. This meal captures all the bright, crunchy elements of a traditional spring roll in a convenient bowl format.

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Whether you choose crispy pan-fried tofu or chilled shrimp, this bowl is a satisfying fusion of textures. The combination of aromatic mint and cilantro provides an authentic freshness that makes every bite feel like a celebration of Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

• Base: 200 g rice vermicelli noodles, 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Vegetables: 2 medium carrots (julienned), 1 small cucumber (julienned), 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced), 100 g red cabbage (finely shredded), 100 g bean sprouts, 4 spring onions (thinly sliced), 1 small bunch fresh cilantro (roughly chopped), 1 small bunch fresh mint (leaves picked)
• Protein (choose one): 200 g firm tofu (pressed and cubed) or 200 g cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Peanut Sauce: 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free), 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
• Garnishes: 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts (chopped), 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with 1 tablespoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prep Vegetables

Prepare the vegetables: julienne the carrots and cucumber, slice the bell pepper, shred the cabbage, and set all in separate bowls.

Step 3: Prepare Protein

For tofu, pat dry and pan-fry in a little oil over medium heat until golden and crisp on all sides. For shrimp, ensure they are cooked, peeled, and chilled.

Step 4: Whisk the Sauce

Make the peanut sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a pourable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Bowls

To assemble: Divide the rice noodles among four bowls. Arrange the vegetables, protein, and herbs attractively on top of the noodles.

Step 6: Garnish

Drizzle each bowl generously with peanut sauce. Sprinkle with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately, allowing diners to mix everything together as they eat.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a large pot for the noodles and ensuring they are rinsed thoroughly helps maintain a pleasant texture. For the tofu, make sure to press it well before cubing and pan-frying to achieve a truly crisp exterior that contrasts with the soft noodles.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this dish gluten-free, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce. For an extra spicy kick, add a dash of sriracha or sliced fresh chili to the peanut sauce. You can also swap tofu or shrimp for grilled chicken if preferred, or add sliced radishes for extra crunch.

Serviervorschläge

Present the bowls with the ingredients arranged in neat sections to showcase the vibrant colors. Serve immediately while the noodles are fresh and provide extra lime wedges on the side for guests to adjust the acidity to their liking.

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This Asian Spring Roll Bowl with Peanut Sauce is a refreshing, easy-to-make dish that satisfies cravings for fresh ingredients and rich, nutty flavors. It is perfect for meal prep or a healthy dinner that feels like a treat.

Recipe FAQs

→ What noodles work best in this bowl?

Rice vermicelli noodles are ideal for their delicate texture and ability to absorb flavors while staying light.

→ How can I make the peanut sauce less thick?

Add warm water gradually to thin the sauce to a pourable consistency without losing creaminess.

→ Can I substitute the protein in this dish?

Yes, firm tofu or cooked shrimp work well, and grilled chicken can also be used as an alternative.

→ What herbs add freshness to the bowl?

Fresh cilantro and mint provide vibrant, aromatic notes enhancing the overall flavor.

→ How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Julienne or thinly slice vegetables and serve them raw or lightly chilled to maintain crunchiness.