Spring rolls and summer rolls are two popular Vietnamese dishes that look similar but have distinct differences. Both are made by wrapping ingredients in rice paper, but the fillings and preparation methods set them apart. So why are spring rolls referred to as “summer” rolls? Let’s take a closer look at the history and characteristics of these appetizers to find out.
The Origin of Spring Rolls
Spring rolls (also known as fresh rolls or salad rolls) have their roots in Chinese cuisine. They likely originated in China’s Fujian province before spreading to other parts of Asia, including Vietnam. The early versions of spring rolls were called “popiah” and date back to the 10th century or earlier.
Some sources suggest that spring rolls were eaten during the spring festival in China, hence the name. The fresh ingredients wrapped inside the thin, delicate rice paper were thought to symbolize the freshness of spring.
As spring rolls migrated to Vietnam, they took on a life of their own. The Vietnamese put their own spin on the dish by using local herbs, vegetables, and proteins. The fresh spring roll was a perfect appetizer for the warm, humid days of the Southern Vietnam region.
The Creation of Summer Rolls
So when and why were these spring rolls renamed to “summer” rolls in Vietnam? It comes down to a difference in language.
The Vietnamese name for spring rolls is “gỏi cuốn.” This literally translates to “salad roll.” However, the Chinese characters used to write “gỏi cuốn” were 夏捲, which means “summer roll.”
The word for “summer” became part of the Vietnamese term for fresh spring rolls. When these dishes later spread to Western countries, the English translation referred to them as summer rolls to align with the Vietnamese name.
So while they’re still called “spring rolls” in Chinese cuisine, in Vietnamese and Western cuisine they adopted the name “summer rolls.” This is why spring rolls are known as summer rolls today.
Differences Between Spring Rolls and Summer Rolls
Besides the name, there are some other notable differences between spring rolls and summer rolls:
Ingredients
Spring roll fillings usually consist of cooked ingredients such as:
- Sautéed vegetables like cabbage, carrots, wood ear mushrooms
- Vermicelli noodles
- Pork, shrimp, chicken
- Bean sprouts
Popular fillings for summer rolls include:
- Leafy herbs like mint, basil, cilantro
- Fresh lettuce and other salad greens
- Vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, avocado
- Rice vermicelli noodles
- Shrimp, grilled meat, tofu
As you can see, the main difference is that spring roll fillings are cooked while summer roll ingredients are fresh and uncooked.
Wrapper
Both spring rolls and summer rolls use wrappers made from rice paper. However, the rice papers for each dish vary slightly:
- Spring roll wrappers are thicker and sturdier.
- Summer roll wrappers are more delicate and designed to be eaten fresh.
Shape
Spring rolls are typically rolled into tighter cylindrical shapes. Summer rolls have a more loose, irregular shape since they contain more fresh ingredients.
Cooking Method
The main cooking difference is:
- Spring rolls are fried until the wrappers become crispy and golden brown.
- Summer rolls are not cooked. They are served fresh and eaten right away.
Flavors
Spring rolls often have robust, complex flavors from frying the ingredients together. The summer rolls let the fresh, light flavors of the herbs and vegetables shine through.
Dipping Sauce
Popular dipping sauces include:
- Spring rolls: Sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce
- Summer rolls: Fish sauce seasoned with lime juice, vinegar, garlic, chili
Nutrition Facts Comparison
Due to the different ingredients and cooking methods, spring rolls and summer rolls have some nutritional differences:
| Nutrition Facts (per roll) | Spring Roll | Summer Roll |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | Around 75 | Around 60 |
| Total Fat | 3-4g | 1-2g |
| Carbohydrates | 10-11g | 11-12g |
| Protein | 2-3g | 2-3g |
| Fiber | Less than 1g | 1-2g |
| Sodium | Around 300mg | 5-10mg |
As shown, summer rolls are lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to spring rolls. They contain more fiber due to the fresh vegetables and herbs. Both dishes provide carbohydrates from the rice paper and protein from ingredients like shrimp.
Popularity Around the World
Here is a look at the popularity of spring rolls versus summer rolls globally:
- Vietnam – Both dishes are very popular appetizers and street food
- China – Spring rolls are more common. Summer rolls are served in a few Southern Chinese regions.
- United States – Summer rolls are most popular at Vietnamese restaurants due to the lighter, fresher appeal for American diners.
- Australia – Summer rolls are widely available, especially in takeout Vietnamese food.
- Europe – Summer rolls can be found at Southeast Asian restaurants in metropolitan cities.
In most Western countries, summer rolls have become synonymous with Vietnamese cuisine. Their fresh, healthy image suits the health-conscious consumer. Of course, crispy spring rolls still have their fans too!
How to Eat Summer Rolls
Summer rolls make an excellent appetizer or light meal. Here are some tips for properly eating summer rolls:
Use Less Wrapping
Don’t overstuff summer rolls or they may tear when picking them up. Use just enough rice paper to wrap the fillings snugly.
Handle Gently
Be very gentle when lifting finished rolls since the rice paper is delicate. Use both hands to pick up each roll.
Dip Properly
Only dip one end of the summer roll into sauce rather than dunking the middle. This prevents it from getting soggy.
Eat Immediately
Summer rolls are best enjoyed within a few minutes of assembling them. The rice paper can get gummy if it sits too long.
Cut in Half
If your summer roll is large, cut it in half before eating. This makes it easier to handle and dip.
Combine Flavors
In each bite, aim for a mix of the rice paper, herbs, veggies, protein, and sauce.
Watch for Spills
Summer rolls are prone to breaking and spilling if not eaten carefully. Use a plate to catch any fallen ingredients.
How to Make Summer Rolls
Want to make your own fresh summer rolls at home? Follow these steps:
Prep the Fillings
Wash and slice your desired fillings. Some popular options are carrots, cucumbers, avocado, tofu, shrimp, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, cilantro, mint, and basil.
Soften the Wrappers
Briefly dip the dry rice paper wrappers in warm water to soften. Lay them flat on a work surface.
Fill and Roll
Place your fillings in a row near the bottom third of the wrapper. Fold the sides inward and roll up tightly into a cylinder.
Repeat
Do this assembly line-style to form all your summer rolls.
Serve Immediately
Serve the fresh summer rolls right away with a dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Finding the Best Summer Rolls
Follow these tips for finding delicious summer rolls when dining out:
- Check reviews of Vietnamese restaurants near you
- See if the summer rolls are freshly assembled versus pre-made
- Look for rolls with vibrant colors from herbs and veggies
- Request a gluten-free option if needed
- Ask about peanut allergies if relevant
- See if you can customize fillings to your preferences
- Ask for a sample or small order to test first
High-quality summer rolls should have fresh, crisp ingredients wrapped snugly in a smooth rice paper. The dipping sauce should add flavor without overpowering.
Common FAQs
Are spring rolls and summer rolls the same?
No, spring rolls and summer rolls are two distinct Vietnamese dishes. Spring rolls have cooked fillings and are deep fried. Summer rolls contain fresh fillings and are not cooked.
Are summer rolls healthy?
Yes, summer rolls are generally considered a healthier appetizer option. They are lower in calories, fat, and sodium compared to fried spring rolls.
Can you freeze summer rolls?
It’s best not to freeze pre-assembled summer rolls. However, you can freeze summer roll ingredients separately then assemble fresh when ready to eat.
Do summer rolls contain meat?
Summer rolls can contain cooked meat like shrimp, chicken or pork. Vegetarian options are common as well, made with tofu and all vegetables.
How long do summer rolls last?
Assembled summer rolls are best eaten immediately. Leftover summer rolls should be consumed within 6-8 hours and kept refrigerated.
Conclusion
While their names may be confusing, spring rolls and summer rolls offer two delicious ways to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine. Summer rolls take the fresher approach with cool herbs, lettuce, and vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper. This bright appetizer is a refreshing choice for warmer months. Whatever you call them, a platter of summer rolls is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!