Bánh Cuốn with Rice Paper (Rice Paper Rolls)

Steps

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1. 1
   Prepare shallots: mince some shallots for the filling, and slice the remainder thinly for frying.
   ▶ ≈0:50
2. 2
   Prepare scallions: chop scallions, reserving some for garnish.
   ▶ ≈0:57
3. 3
   Prepare wood ear mushrooms: rehydrate and rinse, then chop or blend finely.
   ▶ ≈1:25
4. 4
   Fry shallots: when oil is hot, add shallot slices and fry over low heat until just turning golden, then remove (they will continue cooking).
   ▶ ≈1:44
5. 5
   Stir-fry filling: heat two tablespoons of the fried shallot oil in a wok, then stir-fry the minced shallots until fragrant.
   ▶ ≈2:16
6. 6
   Add ground pork and stir-fry over low heat until softened.
   ▶ ≈2:35
7. 7
   Add wood ear mushrooms, raise heat to high, and stir-fry for about one minute.
   ▶ ≈2:52
8. 8
   Season with one tablespoon fish sauce, half tablespoon oyster sauce, one-third tablespoon sugar, and ground pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another minute until flavors are absorbed.
   ▶ ≈3:06
9. 9
   Turn off heat, add the chopped scallions (to preserve their color), mix well, and transfer to a plate.
   ▶ ≈3:30
10. 10
    Prepare rice paper: fill a tray with water. Soak three to four sheets of rice paper at a time for 15-20 seconds until softened, then gently remove and drain.
    ▶ ≈3:48
11. 11
    Fill and roll: place a spoonful of filling on each softened sheet, spread evenly, then roll up.
    ▶ ≈4:27
12. 12
    Brush each roll lightly with fried shallot oil to prevent sticking, then arrange in a steamer basket.
    ▶ ≈4:44
13. 13
    Steam the rolls: once water boils, steam for 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Do not over-steam or they will fall apart.
    ▶ ≈5:11
14. 14
    Make fish sauce dip: heat one tablespoon fish sauce, one tablespoon sugar, and five tablespoons water until sugar dissolves and mixture just begins to boil. Remove from heat and add half tablespoon vinegar (or lemon juice if preferred; wait for slight cooling before adding lemon juice).
    ▶ ≈5:25
15. 15
    Serve the rice paper rolls hot with the fish sauce dip, optionally adding minced garlic and chili for extra flavor.
    ▶ ≈6:01