Easy Egg Rolls Recipe

Egg rolls are a beloved appetizer that brings together the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and flavorful. With a crispy golden exterior and a filling of tender, savory ground pork and crisp vegetables, these homemade Egg Rolls will easily outshine their takeout counterparts. While they are often associated with Chinese cuisine, egg rolls have become a favorite in many cultures, and they’re often served as appetizers at parties, gatherings, or simply as a tasty snack.

What makes these egg rolls so irresistible is the combination of ground pork, garlic, ginger, and the umami-rich flavors of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering filling, wrapped tightly in a crispy egg roll wrapper and deep-fried to perfection. Plus, they’re versatile—if you’re not a fan of pork, you can easily swap it out for chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian filling.

If you’re craving a deliciously crunchy bite with an explosion of flavor, these Egg Rolls are the perfect homemade treat. They’re quick to make, easy to assemble, and simply irresistible when paired with your favorite dipping sauce. Let’s dive into how to make this classic, crispy appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Delicious: The golden-brown, crispy exterior of these egg rolls is the perfect contrast to the savory, flavorful filling inside.
2. Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can make these egg rolls in no time.
3. Customizable Filling: While this recipe uses ground pork, you can substitute with chicken, shrimp, or even a vegetarian mixture of mushrooms and tofu.
4. Perfect for Parties: Egg rolls are always a crowd favorite. Whether for a dinner party, game day, or family get-together, they’re a hit every time.
5. Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces makes the filling rich in flavor, while the crunch from the cabbage and carrots adds a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

• Ground pork
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (grated)
• Shredded cabbage
• Shredded carrots
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Sesame oil
• Egg roll wrappers
• Oil for frying

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground pork for crumbled tofu or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and finely chopped vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Add Spices: For some heat, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to the filling.
• Use Different Meat: Ground chicken, turkey, or beef can be substituted for pork, depending on your preference.
• Bake Instead of Frying: If you prefer a lighter option, brush the egg rolls with oil and bake them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Different Vegetables: Experiment with adding finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even bean sprouts to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pork

In a large skillet, heat the ground pork over medium heat. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

To the browned pork, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Sauce

Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrots, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have a bit of crunch. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, with a corner pointing toward you (like a diamond shape). Place a spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Seal the edge with a dab of water to ensure it stays closed.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). You need enough oil to submerge the egg rolls for even frying.

Step 6: Fry the Egg Rolls

Carefully lower the egg rolls into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Serve

Let the egg rolls cool slightly before serving. Pair with sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Seal the Egg Rolls Well: Ensure the edges are tightly sealed with water to prevent the filling from leaking out while frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the egg rolls in batches to maintain the oil temperature, which ensures they get crispy and golden rather than greasy.
• Cool the Filling: Let the filling cool slightly before rolling the egg rolls to prevent the wrappers from becoming soggy.
• Test the Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F. If it’s too hot, the egg rolls will burn on the outside before the filling cooks through. If it’s too cool, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

How to Serve

Egg rolls are best served immediately after frying while they are still hot and crispy. Serve them as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy mustard dip. They also make a great snack or main dish when paired with a side of rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. These egg rolls are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a delicious addition to your Chinese or Asian-inspired dinner spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover egg rolls, allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the texture will soften slightly, they’ll still be delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, place the uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. You can fry them directly from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the frying time.

Reheating

To reheat fried egg rolls, bake them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re hot and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

1. Can I make these egg rolls without pork?

Yes! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version of these egg rolls.

2. Can I bake the egg rolls instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake egg rolls. Brush them with oil and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

3. Can I freeze egg rolls before frying?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked egg rolls. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then store them in a freezer bag. Fry them from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

4. What type of oil is best for frying egg rolls?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great choices for frying egg rolls because they have a high smoke point.

5. How do I prevent the egg rolls from being greasy?

Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F). Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, and drain the egg rolls on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

6. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Let it cool before rolling the egg rolls.

7. How do I keep egg rolls crispy after frying?

To keep them crispy, serve them immediately after frying, or place them on a wire rack rather than paper towels so air can circulate around them.

8. Can I make egg rolls with shrimp?

Yes, you can use cooked shrimp in place of ground pork for a delicious shrimp egg roll variation.

9. How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

The oil should be around 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of bread or a small bit of the filling into the oil. If it bubbles and turns golden in about 1 minute, the oil is ready.

10. Can I use spring roll wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers?

Spring roll wrappers are thinner and more delicate than egg roll wrappers, so they may not hold up as well to frying. If you use them, fry carefully to avoid breakage.

Conclusion

Making Egg Rolls at home is easier than you think, and the results are far superior to takeout! With a crispy, golden shell and a savory filling, these egg rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit.

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