Spring and summer might be prime time for fruit salad, but the fun doesn't have to stop there. These fruit spring rolls are a delicious way to enjoy the best produce of the season. They are also full of coconut rice, so you can be sure that this healthy treat will leave you feeling satisfied. Top things off with a chocolate dipping sauce and you've got yourself a refreshing, sweet, and photogenic dessert. Ready to make them yourself? Here's how.
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Coconut Rice
Things You'll Need
2 cups canned coconut milk
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 to 3 tablespoons sweetener of choice (optional)
Tip
This recipe yields 3 cups of cooked rice. To make a larger serving, use 2 cups liquid for every 1 cup of uncooked rice.
1. Boil ingredients
In a small pot, combine the coconut milk, rice, and sweetener. Mix well and bring to a boil.
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2. Simmer to cook rice
Reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring frequently. The rice should be sticky but not wet. If there is some liquid left, gently cook for a few more minutes.
Fruit Spring Rolls
Things You'll Need
8 rice paper wrappers
3 cups coconut rice, room temperature
Sliced fruit
Sesame seeds (optional)
Warm water
Tip
When it comes to fruit, anything goes. Use your favorite or whatever is in season. For reference, this recipe used 1 kiwi, 1/2 mango, and 4 strawberries.
1. Prepare rice wrappers
Fill a pie pan with warm water. Briefly dip a rice paper wrapper in the water and place on a dry surface, such as a clean counter top or cutting board. Let sit for a few seconds.
2. Add seeds and fruit
The rice paper will become translucent and pliable. If using sesame seeds, sprinkle them on first. Place 3 to 4 slices of fruit in the center.
Tip
If parts of the wrapper dry out, dip your fingers in water and gently dampen the area. This will minimize tearing.
3. Add rice
Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of coconut rice. Make sure the filling is about 1 1/2 to 2 inches from the edges.
Fold each side of the wrapper inward, much like you would with a burrito.
4. Roll and set aside
Fold up the bottom half of the wrapper, tuck under the fillings, and roll shut. Set aside to dry slightly. Repeat with the remaining rice paper wrappers, fruit, and rice.
While constructing the spring rolls, melt the chocolate for the dipping sauce. You can also make the sauce while the rolls dry.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Things You'll Need
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup milk of choice
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted unsalted butter
1. Melt the chocolate
Add water to the bottom pan of a double boiler. In the top pan, combine half the chocolate chips and half the oil. Slowly heat the water so that it is steaming, but not bubbling. Keep a close watch and stir frequently.
Once the chocolate has liquefied, add the remaining chips and oil. Mix until everything has melted and the chocolate reaches a smooth, even consistency.
Tip
If you don't have a double boiler, use this easy substitute: Fill 1/3 of a small pot with water. Lay a slightly larger stainless steel bowl on top of the pot, making sure that the bottom does not touch the water. You can also place a heat-safe measuring cup or mason jar in the pot of water.
Warning
Do not do this step without water. This is especially important if you are using a mason jar, which will break when heated in a pot by itself.
2. Add milk
While the melted chocolate is still warm, stir in the milk until thoroughly combined. Pour into a small bowl.
Tip
If chocolate isn't your style, use butterscotch or caramel chips instead. Want a low-sugar option? Whip up a half portion of your favorite smoothie and serve it as a dip. Yogurt, honey, and whipped cream cheese work just as well.
This recipe makes enough for 7 to 8 spring rolls, depending on how much you stuff each one. To make enough for a party, simply double or triple the coconut rice, fruit, and chocolate dipping sauce as needed.