Spring rolls are one of my favorite snacks and simple meals. In restaurants they arrive neatly rolled and ready to eat, but at home we turn making them into a family activity. We wrap, roll and eat as we go — it’s part of the fun and makes a relaxed, social meal.
I have fond memories of sitting around the table as a child, assembling spring rolls with my family. Those evenings were all about the food, the conversation and enjoying each other’s company. This tofu and avocado variation is a great way to recreate that hands-on experience: crisp fried tofu, creamy avocado, fresh vegetables and a rich peanut dipping sauce.
On a more personal note, life has been a bit overwhelming lately. After dealing with an illness last year and tests since then, I discovered I have mannose binding lectin deficiency. That means my blood doesn’t produce enough of this protein that helps fight infections. It likely stems from a genetic variation, and in hindsight it explains why I fell ill often as a child and why colds frequently turned into lengthy bronchitis episodes.
Although there isn’t a cure for this deficiency, knowing about it has helped me take my health more seriously. My doctors recommended certain vaccines; last October, at 36 years old, I received the pneumonia vaccine, and I plan to stay current with my flu shots and other recommended vaccinations. These steps, along with better rest and self-care, are my priorities moving forward.
Okay — back to the recipe. These spring rolls are easy to prepare and very adaptable. Slice the tofu, pat it dry so it fries crisp, and prep the vegetables and rice noodles. I love fried tofu — it’s deliciously addictive, almost like fries. Assemble everything on the table so everyone can make their own rolls the way they like.
Tofu & Avocado Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Ingredients
- Peanut Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2/3 cup water
- 2 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
- Splash of fish sauce (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Spring Rolls
- Rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 pound firm tofu, sliced and cut into strips
- 1/4 in grape seed oil
- 1/2 red pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, cut into strips
- 1/4 purple cabbage, sliced
- Thai basil leaves
- Rice paper wrappers
Instructions
- Make the peanut dipping sauce: Whisk together the peanut butter, water, hoisin, fish sauce (if using), minced garlic and sugar in a small bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the noodles and vegetables: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the rice noodles following package directions. Drain and set aside. Slice the red pepper, avocado, cucumber and cabbage. Have the basil leaves ready.
- Dry and fry the tofu: After cutting the tofu into strips, place the pieces on clean paper towels and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Pour grape seed oil into a nonstick skillet to about a quarter-inch depth. Heat over medium to medium-high for 4–5 minutes, then fry the tofu strips about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Soften the rice paper: One at a time, quickly wet both sides of a rice paper wrapper with very warm water — do not let it soak. Lay it flat on a round plate and let it rest for about a minute until pliable.
- Assemble the rolls: On the softened wrapper, layer rice noodles, tofu, red pepper, avocado, cucumber, cabbage and a couple of basil leaves. Roll once, fold in the sides, and continue rolling until sealed.
- Serve: Serve the fresh spring rolls immediately with the chilled peanut dipping sauce. They’re best enjoyed right after assembling.
Notes
- These spring rolls are best served fresh. The rice paper can become sticky if stored too long.
- Feel free to swap or add fillings: shredded carrots, cilantro, mint or lettuce all make great additions.
- If you prefer a lighter option, bake or pan-sear the tofu instead of deep frying.
These spring rolls are fun to make, customizable and full of texture — creamy avocado, crunchy vegetables and savory tofu, all complemented by a rich, nutty dipping sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, they’re an easy, hands-on option that’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
