If you’ve ever craved a crispy, golden, melt-in-your-mouth appetizer without deep-frying, Air Fryer Rice Paper Rolls are your dream come true. This recipe brings together the delicate crunch of air-fried rice paper, fresh vibrant fillings, and a customizable dipping sauce that will impress family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick snack, or exploring Asian-inspired cuisine, these rolls hit the sweet spot between flavor, health, and convenience.

Rice paper rolls have been a staple in Vietnamese cuisine for decades, traditionally steamed or fried. By using an air fryer, we retain the crispiness of fried rolls while minimizing oil, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. The air fryer’s circulating hot air cooks the rolls evenly, giving a golden exterior that crunches with every bite.

Ingredients

Rice Paper Rolls
- 10 sheets rice paper
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, sliced (or cooked chicken/tofu for vegetarian)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Cooking spray or a light brush of oil
Dipping Sauce
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
- Water as needed to thin

Instructions

Prep the Filling
Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside. Julienne vegetables and chop herbs. Slice shrimp or chicken if using. Have all ingredients ready for rolling.
Soften Rice Paper Sheets
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Quickly dip one rice paper sheet for 5–8 seconds until soft but still pliable. Lay it flat on a damp kitchen towel.
Assemble Rolls
Place a small handful of noodles in the center, followed by vegetables, herbs, and protein. Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from bottom to top, creating a compact cylinder. Repeat with remaining sheets.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.
Prepare Rolls for Air Frying
Lightly spray or brush each roll with oil to encourage browning. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between rolls for airflow.
Air Fry Rolls
Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Rolls should be golden brown and crisp to the touch. Adjust timing based on your air fryer’s model.
Make the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk hoisin, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. Add water gradually to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately with the hot rolls.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate the rolls, sprinkle sesame seeds or extra herbs for garnish, and serve with dipping sauce. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main course.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Rice Paper Rolls

Don’t oversoak rice paper: Over-soaked sheets tear easily. Dip briefly for flexibility, not sogginess.
Even filling: Keep fillings moderate to avoid bursting during cooking.
Oil lightly: A thin layer ensures crispiness without adding too many calories.
Flip carefully: Use tongs or a silicone spatula to prevent tearing.
Make ahead: Assemble rolls and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Air fry right before serving.

Variations

Vegetarian: Use tofu or tempeh instead of shrimp. Add avocado slices for creaminess.
Spicy: Include thin slices of chili in the filling or add sriracha to the dipping sauce.
Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella inside before rolling for melty goodness.
Gluten-free: Ensure hoisin and soy sauce are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light Asian-style salad with sesame dressing.
Serve with multiple dipping sauces: sweet chili, peanut, soy-ginger, or lime-fish sauce.
Great as finger food for parties, bento boxes, or family snacks.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Rice paper rolls originated in Vietnam, where they’re called “Gỏi cuốn”, meaning fresh salad rolls. Traditionally, they are soft, served with peanut or hoisin sauce. The crispy air fryer version is a modern twist popular in fusion cuisine. Using an air fryer instead of deep-frying reduces oil by up to 80%, making it a guilt-free snack.

Why Air Frying is Ideal

Cooks evenly with hot circulating air.
Creates golden-brown, crunchy exteriors.
Uses minimal oil compared to traditional frying.
Fast, convenient, and reduces kitchen mess.

With this method, anyone—from busy parents to cooking enthusiasts—can enjoy crispy, fresh, and flavorful rice paper rolls without compromising on taste or health. Once you master the technique, variations are endless, from seafood and meat fillings to vegan options. Your air fryer is now officially a magic roll-maker!