If you’re looking to impress your taste buds and your friends, the Giant Spring Rolls with Crispy Tofu and Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These fresh, vibrant spring rolls combine the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables with perfectly pan-fried tofu, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Paired with a luscious, savory peanut dipping sauce that sings with hints of lime, garlic, and a subtle kick of cayenne, this dish is as fun to make as it is to devour. It’s a celebration of textures, flavors, and colors that feels light yet completely fulfilling, perfect for a quick lunch or a stunning appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Five rectangular white tofu blocks are placed side by side on a wooden cutting board with light and dark grain patterns. The tofu pieces vary slightly in texture, showing smooth and slightly porous surfaces. The cutting board lies on a white marbled surface with subtle gray veins. The photo is taken from above, focusing clearly on the tofu's clean cuts and the natural wood texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients that each bring their own special touch. Crisp lettuce and colorful vegetables add freshness and crunch, while extra-firm tofu provides that crave-worthy protein punch. The peanut dipping sauce ties everything together with creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy notes that elevate each bite.

2 large lettuce leaves: These act as a fresh, crisp base inside the spring roll, adding an essential crunch.
½ English cucumber: Provides cool, juicy crispness and a subtle sweetness.
2 medium carrots (or pre-shredded carrots): Add vibrant color and natural sweetness, plus great texture.
2 handfuls shredded red cabbage (pre-shredded): Offers a beautiful pop of purple and a satisfying crunch.
7 oz extra-firm tofu: The star protein, pan-fried for a crispy texture that contrasts delightfully with the veggies.
2 teaspoons sesame oil (or olive oil): For that toasty, nutty flavor when cooking tofu.
8 rice paper sheets: The delicate wrapper that holds all the goodness together without overpowering flavors.
2 handfuls fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note if you’re feeling adventurous.
3 tablespoons peanut butter: The creamy, nutty base of the dipping sauce that brings everything home.
3 tablespoons tamari (or gluten-free soy sauce): Brings a deep umami kick to the sauce.
2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds bright acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
1 teaspoon maple syrup: Mild sweetness to round out the sauce flavors perfectly.
¼ teaspoon ginger powder: A warm spice that awakens the taste buds.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Punchy and savory, enhancing the sauce’s depth.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Just a touch for a gentle, pleasing heat.
2 tablespoons water: To achieve that perfect dipping sauce consistency.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Giant Spring Rolls with Crispy Tofu and Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Crispy Tofu

Start by cutting the extra-firm tofu into sticks about half an inch thick. Pan-fry these in a little sesame oil over medium-high heat for about one minute on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This crispy exterior is what makes the tofu so irresistible, providing a wonderful contrast to the fresh veggies that will come next.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the tofu is cooking, get your vegetables ready. Wash your lettuce leaves thoroughly—they’ll give your rolls a crisp, fresh foundation. Then slice the cucumber and carrots into thin matchsticks; a julienne peeler works beautifully here if you want perfectly uniform strips. The shredded red cabbage adds color and crunch to every bite, creating a lively, textured filling.

Step 3: Whip Up the Peanut Dipping Sauce

Mix together the peanut butter, tamari, lime juice, maple syrup, ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl or jar. Add water little by little, stirring until you reach that silky, dippable consistency. This sauce is the heart of the giant spring rolls with crispy tofu and peanut dipping sauce recipe—creamy, tangy, and with just the right kick to tie all the flavors together.

Step 4: Soften the Rice Paper and Assemble

Dip each rice paper sheet into a bowl of lukewarm water for about 15 seconds until soft and pliable. Place them on a slightly damp cutting board so that they overlap in a square shape. Lay a lettuce leaf in the center, then layer the cucumber sticks, carrots, shredded red cabbage, crispy tofu, and a handful of cilantro if you’re using it. This layering sets the stage for the flavorful explosion that’s coming.

Step 5: Roll Up Your Giant Spring Rolls

Fold the bottom edge of the rice paper over the ingredients, tucking it gently underneath to secure the filling. Then fold in the sides towards the center and roll upwards tightly but gently. The result is a beautifully packed giant spring roll that’s both sturdy and bursting with fresh flavors.

How to Serve Giant Spring Rolls with Crispy Tofu and Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe

The image shows a wooden cutting board on a white marbled surface. On the board, there are two layers of vegetables: one layer is a pile of thin, bright orange carrot sticks with a shredded texture, and the other layer is a group of pale green cucumber sticks with smooth edges and a fresh look. The carrot layer is on the top left side of the board, and the cucumber sticks are stacked neatly on the bottom right side. The colors contrast nicely with the natural wood of the board and the white marble underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on the peanut dipping sauce adds a delightful crunch and visual interest. Fresh herbs like mint or additional cilantro can brighten up the rolls even more right at the table, making every bite pop with freshness.

Side Dishes

These giant spring rolls pair wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a mango salad or a cold vermicelli noodle bowl. For a heartier meal, a bowl of hot, fragrant soup such as pho or a spicy coconut curry complements the cool rolls beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the spring rolls in half diagonally and fanning them out on a large platter with small bowls of peanut dipping sauce alongside for a stunning party platter. You can even serve the peanut sauce drizzled thinly over the top with a few sprigs of herbs for an elegant touch that makes the dish stand out as a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap each giant spring roll tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out and store in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

Spring rolls with fresh vegetables generally don’t freeze well because the texture changes upon thawing. The tofu and peanut sauce can be frozen separately, and you can prepare fresh veggies and rice paper when ready to serve for the best experience.

Reheating

Since these rolls are traditionally served fresh, reheating isn’t recommended. However, you can reheat the tofu separately in a hot pan to restore some crispness before assembling fresh spring rolls with your stored ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?

Absolutely! While tofu is fantastic here, you can swap it for cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even tempeh. Just make sure to maintain a crispy texture for the best contrast with the fresh veggies.

Is rice paper gluten-free?

Yes, rice paper sheets are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a great gluten-free option. Just be sure to use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to keep it completely gluten-free.

How long do rice paper sheets stay fresh after opening?

Rice paper sheets typically come in sealed packages and can last several months unopened. Once opened, store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent moisture from making them sticky or brittle.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The peanut dipping sauce can be made a day or two in advance and refrigerated. Give it a good stir before serving, adding a bit of water if needed to loosen the consistency.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

No worries at all! The cayenne pepper in the sauce is completely optional. You can leave it out or reduce the amount to keep the dipping sauce mild and family-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Making the Giant Spring Rolls with Crispy Tofu and Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe is such a joyous cooking adventure that delivers big on flavor and freshness with every bite. Whether it’s a casual weekday lunch or an impressive dish for friends, these spring rolls bring vibrant tastes and beautiful colors to your table with ease. I cannot recommend diving into this recipe enough—you’re going to fall head over heels for the perfect harmony of crisp veggies, golden tofu, and that dreamy peanut sauce. Give it a try and create a new favorite in your kitchen!