How to Make Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls - Step by Step Recipe

Start by softening the rice papers. I like to use two rice papers per roll, just to make sure they don't break. Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip two rice papers (or one) very carefully and gradually for about 1 minute, until totally soften. Lay rice papers on a clean cloth. (See the pictures, they explain the process way better than I do).Arrange about 4 beautiful mint leaves at the bottom of the rice paper, then about 4 shrimp halves. Top with a lettuce leaf, a small handful of vermicelli and a small handful of bean sprouts (there's no photo of the bean sprouts part because I wasn't able to find any the day I took the pics!). Add additional mint leaves. That's the moment when you can actually add pretty much anything you have in mind -and in you fridge- (think cilantro, peanuts, chicken, parsley...). Top with a second lettuce leaf. Always keep about 2 inches uncovered on each side.Now the rolling part. Fold uncovered sides inward, then tightly roll the rice paper, as shown on the pics. Repeat with remaining ingredients.Prepare the sauce. In a sauce pan, combine rice vinegar, fish sauce, water and sugar. Heat until sugar is dissolved, then let cool completely. Add garlic and carrots. It keeps about a week in the fridge.Serve your homemade spring rolls with the sauce and enjoy!