How to Make Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad, known locally as 'Salad Kertas Beras Vietnam', has become a favorite among Malaysians seeking a refreshing, light, and vegetarian lunch. Inspired by the multicultural fabric of Malaysia, this salad combines the delicate texture of rice paper with crunchy vegetables, fragrant herbs like daun ketumbar (coriander), and a tangy dressing infused with limau nipis (lime) and cili padi (bird’s eye chili). The dish is often enjoyed in urban Malaysian cafés and home kitchens, reflecting the nation’s openness to regional flavors and healthy eating trends. This salad is a celebration of fresh market produce, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious Malaysians. The use of local ingredients such as kacang tanah (peanuts), daun pudina (mint), and lemongrass highlights Malaysia’s diverse agricultural heritage. With minimal cooking required, Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad is perfect for busy lifestyles and offers a nutritious, satisfying meal. Its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes appeals to both young and old, making it a staple during gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 6 sheets Rice paper sheets (Kertas beras Vietnam)
- 1 medium Carrot (Julienned)
- 1 small Cucumber (Julienned)
- 1/4 cup Daun ketumbar (coriander) (Chopped)
- 1/4 cup Daun pudina (mint) (Fresh, chopped)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (Finely sliced)
- 2 tbsp Kacang tanah (peanuts) (Roasted, crushed)
- 2 Cili padi (bird’s eye chili) (Thinly sliced)
- 1 Limau nipis (lime) (Juiced)
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce (Low sodium)
- 1 Pandan leaves (Optional, for fragrance)
- 1/2 tsp Sugar (Optional, or substitute with stevia)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak rice paper sheets in warm water for 30 seconds until soft and ...
Soak rice paper sheets in warm water for 30 seconds until soft and pliable. Remove and lay them flat on a clean towel.
Step 2 · Julienne carrot and cucumber
Julienne carrot and cucumber. Slice lemongrass thinly and chop daun ketumbar and daun pudina.
Step 3 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetables, herbs, and sliced lemongrass. Toss gently to mix.
Step 4 · Prepare dressing: Mix lime juice
Prepare dressing: Mix lime juice, soy sauce, sugar or stevia, and sliced cili padi. Stir until sugar dissolves.
Step 5 · Cut softened rice paper into strips using kitchen scissors
Cut softened rice paper into strips using kitchen scissors. Add rice paper strips to the salad bowl.
Step 6 · Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients ev...
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 7 · Sprinkle crushed kacang tanah and garnish with pandan leaves if des...
Sprinkle crushed kacang tanah and garnish with pandan leaves if desired.
Step 8 · Serve immediately in salad bowls for the freshest taste
Serve immediately in salad bowls for the freshest taste.
Why this recipe is healthy
This salad is a healthy choice due to its high vegetable content, minimal oil, and absence of processed ingredients. The use of fresh herbs and local produce supports nutrient density without excess calories. The dressing is light and low in sodium, making it heart-friendly. It’s ideal for weight management, diabetes control, and vegetarian diets, aligning with Malaysia’s healthy eating initiatives.
A note on tradition
Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad is popular in Malaysian cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang, especially in cafés and vegetarian eateries. The dish is often enjoyed as a light lunch or starter during social gatherings. Its multicultural roots reflect Malaysia’s openness to regional cuisine, blending Vietnamese technique with Malaysian ingredients like pandan, lemongrass, and kacang tanah. It’s a trendy choice during health and wellness festivals, and fits well into Malaysia’s modern, health-focused food scene.