Egg Roll Recipe (with Video)

Egg Roll Recipe: Egg rolls—crispy on the outside, savory and flavorful on the inside—are a classic appetizer loved worldwide.

These golden snacks are perfect for parties, family dinners, or when you’re craving something indulgent. The best part? You can customize them with your favorite ingredients!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making egg rolls from scratch, ensuring they’re as delicious as they look.

Ingredients for Egg Rolls

Essential Ingredients for the Wrapper

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup water (room temperature)
• 1 tbsp oil

Ingredients for the Filling

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• ½ cup grated carrots
• ½ cup finely chopped cooked chicken (optional)
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• ½ tsp ginger paste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dipping Sauce Options

• Soy-garlic dipping sauce
• Sweet chili sauce
• Peanut sauce

Equipment Needed

Basic Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Skillet or wok

Specialized Equipment for Best Results

• Deep fryer (or deep saucepan for frying)
• Slotted spoon
• Parchment paper

How to Make Egg Roll

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

The filling is the heart of your egg rolls, so getting it right is crucial.

1. Cook the Vegetables and Protein: Heat a skillet with 1 tbsp sesame oil. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and any protein you’re using, like chicken or shrimp. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes.
2. Season to Taste: Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook until the vegetables are slightly softened but still have some crunch.
3. Set Aside to Cool: Transfer the cooked filling to a plate and let it cool completely. Warm filling can make the wrappers soggy.

Step 2: Making the Wrapper

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Wrappers

While store-bought wrappers save time, homemade ones have a fresher taste and firmer texture.

How to Make Wrappers from Scratch

1. Mix the Dough: Combine flour, salt, water, and oil in a mixing bowl. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out Thin Sheets: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin, square sheet using a rolling pin. Dust with flour as needed.
3. Cut to Size: Trim edges for uniform squares. Your wrappers are now ready!

Step 3: Assembling the Egg Rolls

Step-by-Step Rolling Technique

1. Lay the Wrapper: Place a wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).
2. Add Filling: Spoon 1-2 tbsp of filling onto the lower third of the wrapper.
3. Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners. Roll tightly to seal.
4. Seal the Edges: Use a small amount of beaten egg or water along the top edge to seal the roll.

Tips to Avoid Breakage

• Don’t overfill the wrappers.
• Ensure the filling is cool and not watery.
• Roll tightly but gently to avoid tearing the wrapper.

Step 4: Cooking the Egg Rolls

Deep-Frying: Achieving Crispy Perfection

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Gently place the egg rolls into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the egg rolls with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Frying: Spray egg rolls with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Step 5: Preparing the Dipping Sauce

Sweet and Savory Sauces to Pair

• Mix soy sauce, minced garlic, and honey for a sweet-savory dip.
• Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili flakes for a nutty twist.

Making a Classic Soy-Garlic Dip

1. Combine 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp vinegar, 1 tsp minced garlic, and 1 tsp sugar.
2. Add chili flakes for spice, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Egg Rolls

Achieving the perfect egg roll can seem tricky, but with a few pro tips, you’ll master it in no time.

Ensuring Crunchy Wrappers

• Hot Oil is Key: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C). Too cool, and your rolls will absorb oil, making them greasy. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
• Dry the Wrappers: Pat the wrappers dry with a paper towel if they seem damp. This prevents sogginess during cooking.

Preventing Soggy Filling

• Drain the Filling: After cooking the vegetables and proteins, remove excess moisture by placing the mixture on a paper towel.
• Cool Before Rolling: Warm filling can make the wrapper soggy and difficult to handle. Let it cool completely before assembly.

Serving Suggestions

Egg rolls are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion.

How to Plate for Maximum Appeal

• Arrange the egg rolls on a plate lined with crisp lettuce leaves for a pop of color.
• Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for a restaurant-style presentation.

Ideal Side Dishes for Egg Rolls

• Fried Rice: Pair with vegetable fried rice for a complete meal.
• Soup: Egg rolls go wonderfully with hot and sour soup or wonton soup.
• Salads: Serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a tangy Asian coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your egg rolls are always a hit:

Overfilling the Wrapper

• Overstuffed wrappers are harder to roll and more likely to burst during frying. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling.

Frying at the Wrong Temperature

• Using oil that’s too cool results in greasy egg rolls, while excessively hot oil can burn the exterior before the filling is cooked. Always use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature.

Skipping the Seal

• Not sealing the edges properly can lead to filling spilling out while frying. Use water or egg wash to secure the edges tightly.

Customizing Your Egg Rolls

Egg rolls are endlessly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

• Replace meat with tofu, mushrooms, or chickpeas.
• Use vegan wrappers, which are widely available in most grocery stores.

Adding Unique Flavors

• Experiment with spices like curry powder or garam masala for a bold twist.
• Add chopped herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh flavor boost.
• Sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating Egg Rolls

Made more egg rolls than you can eat? No problem!

Best Practices for Refrigeration and Freezing

• Refrigeration: Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container and consume within 3 days.
• Freezing: Place uncooked or cooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating for Optimal Freshness

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes for a crispy finish.

Healthier Variations of Egg Rolls

For those seeking lighter options, there are plenty of ways to make healthier egg rolls.

Low-Oil Cooking Techniques

• Opt for baking or air frying instead of deep frying. These methods use minimal oil while still producing a crispy texture.

Using Alternative Ingredients

• Replace regular wrappers with rice paper or whole wheat wrappers.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce and lean proteins for a healthier filling.

FAQs about Egg Roll Recipe

Q: What are egg rolls typically filled with?

A: Egg rolls are usually filled with a mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and proteins like ground pork, chicken, or shrimp. Some recipes also include bean sprouts, mushrooms, or other vegetables for added flavor.

Q: What type of wrapper is used for egg rolls?

A: Traditional egg rolls use wheat-based wrappers that are thicker than rice paper wrappers used for spring rolls. These wrappers give egg rolls their signature crispy texture when fried.

Q: Can I bake egg rolls instead of frying them?

A: Yes! To make egg rolls healthier, you can bake them in the oven or air-fry them. Brush the rolls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I keep egg rolls crispy after cooking?

A: To keep egg rolls crispy, place them on a wire rack instead of a plate after frying. This allows excess oil to drip off and prevents sogginess. Avoid covering them tightly, as trapped steam can make them soft.

Q: Can I freeze egg rolls for later?

A: Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked egg rolls by placing them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Fry or bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What dipping sauce goes best with egg rolls?

A: Popular dipping sauces for egg rolls include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, spicy mustard, or hoisin sauce. You can also try a homemade sauce with your favorite flavors.

Conclusion

Egg rolls are a culinary delight that are fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a family dinner, or just as a snack, following this guide will ensure they come out perfectly every time. From choosing the right ingredients to cooking them just right, this step-by-step recipe empowers you to create crispy, flavorful egg rolls that rival your favorite takeout. Don’t forget to experiment with fillings and sauces to make them uniquely yours!