Classic Egg Rolls Recipe
Nothing says comfort quite like a plate of classic egg rolls. Crispy on the outside and bursting with flavorful ingredients like seasoned cabbage, carrots, and pork, this easy home-cooked classic egg rolls recipe is a family favorite for celebrations and weeknight dinners alike. Get ready to experience a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Asia from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Growing up, my grandmother would often whip up a batch of egg rolls for special occasions. It was a treat to watch her closely, learning the intricacies of folding the wrappers and selecting the freshest ingredients. These moments not only filled our home with delightful aromas but also created lasting memories that now inspire my own culinary adventures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These homemade egg rolls are unmatched in their crispy texture and savory filling. The flavor blend is carefully curated to enhance each ingredient without overpowering them. They’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a quick crave-worthy snack. Not only are they easy to customize, but you can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them, making them incredibly convenient for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients Notes
For the best egg rolls, use fresh cabbage and carrots for the filling. Pork is traditional, but feel free to substitute with chicken or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat. Wrappers can be found in the refrigerated section of most Asian markets. Remember to have a tight wrap to prevent the filling from falling out while frying.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by finely shredding the cabbage and carrots, and dicing the protein of your choice. Pre-cook the meat in a skillet until browned, then add the vegetables to the pan for a quick sauté.
Step 2
Transfer the cooked filling into a bowl and let it cool slightly. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of ginger to enhance flavors. Make sure the mixture is not too wet to avoid tearing the wrappers.
Step 3
Place a wrapper on a flat surface and add about two tablespoons of filling onto the bottom third of the wrapper. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up to seal. Use a bit of water to secure the edges.
Step 4
Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Carefully place the egg rolls in the oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
Step 5
Remove the egg rolls and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Storage Options
Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the oven for about 15 minutes at 350°F (180°C) until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
Try shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist. Add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost. For a gluten-free version, ensure your wrappers are made from rice flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying them? Yes, baking is a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush with a bit of oil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden, turning halfway through.
What dipping sauces pair well with egg rolls? Classic sweet and sour sauce is always a crowd-pleaser, but you can also serve them with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick. Feel free to experiment with flavors that you enjoy!
How do I prevent my egg rolls from getting soggy? To keep your egg rolls crispy, ensure the filling is adequately cooled and drained before wrapping. You can also double-fry them for a few minutes if they start to lose their crunch after frying.
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Classic Egg Rolls Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground pork You can substitute with ground chicken or turkey.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 packet egg roll wrappers Available in the refrigerated section of most supermarkets.
- 1 quart vegetable oil For frying.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned.
- Add the cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, and ground ginger. Cook until vegetables are tender.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the filling onto each egg roll wrapper. Fold and roll according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Fry rolls in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
