These crispy rice paper rolls are a modern take on the traditional meat-filled cigars. By using rice paper wrappers, you achieve a light, crisp texture while keeping the dish gluten-free and versatile. Filled with a perfectly spiced ground meat mixture, these rolls can be baked or pan-fried to golden perfection. Whether made with ground chicken, turkey, beef, or vegetarian crumbles, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Servings 20 rolls
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 12-16 ounces ground meat chicken, turkey, beef, or veggie crumbles
- 2 teaspoons baharat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 20 sheets of rice paper wrappers
- Warm water for softening rice paper
- Cooking spray or oil for baking or frying
Nutritional Facts
Nutrition Facts
Rice Paper Moroccan Cigars
Amount per Serving
Calories
114
% Daily Value*
Fat
5
g
8
%
Saturated Fat
2
g
13
%
Trans Fat
0.2
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.4
g
Monounsaturated Fat
3
g
Cholesterol
14
mg
5
%
Sodium
179
mg
8
%
Potassium
70
mg
2
%
Carbohydrates
12
g
4
%
Fiber
0.5
g
2
%
Sugar
0.2
g
0
%
Protein
5
g
10
%
Vitamin A
3
IU
0
%
Vitamin C
0.4
mg
0
%
Calcium
13
mg
1
%
Iron
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Sauté onion for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Stir in cinnamon, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers:
- Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds until softened but still pliable.
- Place the softened rice paper on a clean flat surface, smoothing it out gently.
Fill and Roll:
- Spoon 1 teaspoon of the meat mixture onto the lower third of the rice paper.
- Fold in the sides of the rice paper and roll tightly to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Cook the Rolls:
- To Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the rolls on a lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- To Pan-Fry: Heat a thin layer of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Serve:
- Transfer the crispy rolls to a serving plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or tahini.
Notes
Tips:
To keep the rice paper from sticking, work on a damp surface and avoid over-soaking.
For a vegetarian option, use well-seasoned plant-based crumbles or mashed lentils.
These rolls can be prepped ahead and baked or fried just before serving.
Enjoy these light, crispy bites—a delightful fusion of traditional flavors and modern presentation!
