Egg Rolls Recipe (with Video)

Egg Rolls Recipe: Egg rolls are a favorite appetizer at Chinese restaurants, known for their crispy, golden-brown shell and savory filling. They are packed with vegetables, sometimes meat, and flavored with delicious seasonings. While they may seem complicated, making them at home is easier than you think!

So why make them at home? Homemade egg rolls allow you to customize the ingredients, control the seasoning, and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions. Plus, they taste even better when freshly made!

Ingredients Needed

For the Egg Roll Wrappers:

• Store-bought egg roll wrappers (or homemade)
• 1 egg (for sealing the rolls)
• Water (to help with sealing)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup grated carrots
• ½ cup bean sprouts (optional)
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• 1 pound ground pork or chicken (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil or peanut oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Sweet and sour sauce
• Spicy chili sauce

Kitchen Tools Required

To make egg rolls, you’ll need:

• A sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• A frying pan or wok
• A mixing bowl
• A rolling surface
• A deep fryer or skillet for frying

Preparing the Filling

1. Chop all vegetables finely to ensure even cooking.
2. Cook the meat in a pan over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and vegetables to the pan and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
4. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper and stir well.
5. Allow the mixture to cool before assembling the egg rolls.

Assembling the Egg Rolls

1. Lay out an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape.
2. Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
3. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling.
4. Fold the sides in, making an envelope shape.
5. Roll tightly toward the top corner.
6. Use a bit of beaten egg to seal the edge.

Pro Tip: Don’t overfill the wrappers, or they may burst open while frying!

Frying vs. Baking: Cooking Methods

Frying (Traditional Method)

1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
2. Fry egg rolls for 3–5 minutes until golden brown.
3. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Baking (Healthier Alternative)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush egg rolls with oil and place on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Making the Perfect Dipping Sauce

Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Mix all ingredients and heat until slightly thickened.

Spicy Chili Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili paste
• 1 teaspoon honey

Stir together for a simple, spicy dip!

Serving Suggestions

Egg rolls pair well with:

• Fried rice
• Stir-fried noodles
• Hot and sour soup
• Fresh cucumber salad

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed bag.

Reheating Tips:

• Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
• Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

❌ Overfilling the wrapper – Makes rolling difficult and causes breakage.
❌ Skipping the sealing step – Use egg wash to keep rolls closed.
❌ Frying at the wrong temperature – Too low makes them greasy, too high burns them.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian: Use tofu instead of meat.
• Cheesy Egg Rolls: Add a small slice of mozzarella for a gooey center.
• Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or sriracha.

Healthier Egg Rolls: Air Fryer Option

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly brush egg rolls with oil.
3. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

History and Cultural Significance

Egg rolls originated in Chinese-American cuisine and are different from traditional spring rolls, which have thinner wrappers and are often not fried.

Tips for Making Egg Rolls in Advance

• Freeze uncooked egg rolls for quick meals.
• Store in single layers to prevent sticking.

FAQs about Egg Rolls Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for homemade egg rolls?

To make homemade egg rolls, you’ll need wrappers, ground meat (like pork or chicken), shredded cabbage, carrots, and seasonings such as soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. You can also add ingredients like mushrooms or bean sprouts for added texture.

2. How do I wrap an egg roll?

Start by placing the egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape in front of you. Spoon the filling near the bottom corner, fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and then roll tightly towards the top corner. Use a little water or beaten egg to seal the final edge.

3. Can I make egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare egg rolls in advance. Assemble them, then refrigerate for a few hours before frying. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag, allowing you to fry them directly from frozen.

4. What is the best oil for frying egg rolls?

Peanut oil is often recommended for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil. Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying to get crispy, golden brown results.

5. Are there any dipping sauces I can serve with egg rolls?

Popular dipping sauces include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce-based dips, hot mustard, or a garlic chili sauce. You can easily mix these up at home with common pantry ingredients.

6. How do I keep egg rolls crispy?

To keep egg rolls crispy, don’t overcrowd the frying pan, which can lower the oil temperature and cause sogginess. Drain them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid steam build-up.

7. Can egg rolls be baked instead of fried?

Yes, for a healthier alternative, you can bake egg rolls. Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

8. Are egg rolls gluten-free?

Traditional egg roll wrappers contain wheat, making them not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free wrappers or use rice paper as a substitute to make your egg rolls gluten-free.

Conclusion

Homemade egg rolls are fun, easy, and delicious. Once you try making them from scratch, you won’t want to go back to store-bought versions!

Enjoy cooking and experimenting with different fillings and dips. Happy frying!