Avocado Shiitake Spring Rolls (Print Version)

Crisp rice paper rolls with creamy avocado, sautéed shiitake mushrooms, and fresh vegetables paired with tangy dipping sauce.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables & Mushrooms

01 - 1 ripe avocado, sliced
02 - 4 oz fresh shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, sliced
03 - 1 medium carrot, julienned
04 - 1 small cucumber, julienned
05 - 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
06 - 1 cup fresh baby spinach or lettuce leaves
07 - 2 tablespoons scallions, finely sliced

→ Rice Paper & Garnishes

08 - 8 sheets rice paper (8.5 inch diameter)
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

→ Dipping Sauce

11 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
12 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
14 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
15 - 1 teaspoon grated ginger
16 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
17 - 1 tablespoon water (as needed to thin)

# How-To:

01 - Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Set aside to cool.
02 - Slice avocado, julienne carrot and cucumber, thinly slice bell pepper, arrange spinach or lettuce leaves, slice scallions, and prepare fresh cilantro and mint leaves.
03 - Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet in the water for 10-15 seconds until just softened, then carefully lay flat on a clean kitchen towel or cutting board.
04 - Place a small handful of spinach or lettuce in the center of the rice paper. Top with avocado slices, sautéed shiitake mushrooms, carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, scallions, and fresh herbs.
05 - Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll up tightly to seal. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make 8 rolls.
06 - Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, and water in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional water if desired.
07 - Serve spring rolls immediately, whole or sliced in half, with dipping sauce on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No cooking required for the rolls themselves making them perfect for hot days when you want something refreshing
  • The creamy avocado paired with earthy mushrooms creates a satisfying combination that feels substantial without being heavy
  • You can prepare all the components ahead and roll them just before serving which makes entertaining effortless
02 -
  • Don't oversoak the rice paper or it will tear easily, just 10-15 seconds is all it needs to become workable
  • Work quickly once the paper is softened because it continues to hydrate and becomes more fragile over time
  • Let the mushrooms cool completely before rolling or they'll create steam that makes the wrappers soggy
03 -
  • Use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to slice the rolls without tearing the delicate wrapper
  • Place a damp paper towel over finished rolls while you work to keep them from drying out and cracking