Fresh Coriander Prawns Wrapped in Rice Paper

This Hong Kong innovation may be judged by its cover: Southeast Asian rice paper, the kind used in Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines, delicate, light, translucent, yet very crisp and, to my taste, much superior to the classic Chinese wrappers made from wheat flour and water. The wrapper is adapted here for fresh briny prawns and lusty coriander to create an outstanding appetizer or first course. It may be prepared well in advance and deep-fried at the last minute.