Egg Rolls
Every time I think about making Egg Rolls, I’m transported back to family gatherings where the kitchen would fill with the delicious aroma of frying. My grandmother was the master of this dish, rolling each one with care and precision while sharing stories from her childhood. Watching her was like witnessing magic; she transformed simple ingredients into crispy, golden parcels that were always the highlight of our meals. There’s just something about Egg Rolls that brings people together. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, these savory bites are bound to impress. I love how versatile they are, too! You can fill them with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand, making them a go-to option for any occasion. So, let’s dive into making these irresistible crispy delights!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
25 mins
5 mins
Medium
180 kcal
8 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
8 g
Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon
Why This Egg Rolls Works
Comfort in Every Bite
There’s a reason Egg Rolls have become a beloved dish across many cultures. They encapsulate comfort food in a crispy shell, delivering a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the savory filling. Every bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors; it’s hard to resist!
Easy to Personalize
One of the best things about making Egg Rolls at home is the opportunity to customize your filling. You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a vegetable medley or a hearty meat filling, the choice is yours. The sky’s the limit!
Perfect for Sharing
Whenever I make Egg Rolls, they never last long. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them a staple for gatherings. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen them disappear within minutes, often before the main course even comes out!
Great for Meal Prep
Egg Rolls can be made in batches, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. You can freeze them after wrapping, then fry them fresh whenever you desire. This convenience allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food on busy nights.
Fun to Make Together
Making Egg Rolls can be a fun activity to do with loved ones. There’s something special about collaborating in the kitchen, and rolling these little parcels together can create lasting memories. Plus, everyone can choose their own fillings!
A Crowd-Pleaser
No matter the occasion—game days, potlucks, or family dinners—Egg Rolls are sure to be a hit. They’re finger foods that cater to everyone’s tastes, making them an excellent choice for entertaining.
Ingredients for Egg Rolls
The ingredients for Egg Rolls are simple yet harmonious, coming together to create a fulfilling dish. The blend of fresh and savory elements makes for an irresistible combination. Let’s explore what makes these ingredients special:
- ½ pound ground chicken: This provides the protein base and a juicy texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for frying and adds flavor.
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic: Brings aromatic depth to the filling.
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger: Adds a warm, zesty note that brightens the dish.
- ½ cup finely chopped celery: Contributes crispness and freshness.
- 2 cups coleslaw mix: This is a blend of veggies that adds color and crunch.
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce: Provides a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances the umami taste.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: For a hint of heat and spice.
- ½ cup chopped green onions: Offers a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- 12 egg roll wrappers: The outer layer, crispy when fried.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect crisp.
Preparation Steps for Egg Rolls
Making Egg Rolls is a straightforward yet rewarding experience! Follow these steps, and soon enough, you’ll be enjoying your homemade crispy treats. Let’s get started:
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add ½ teaspoon of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon of minced ginger, and ½ cup of finely chopped celery. Sauté these ingredients together for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until they become fragrant and the celery starts to soften.
- Next, stir in 2 cups of coleslaw mix into the pan. Cook this mixture for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage wilts and reduces in volume.
- Now, add in the star of the dish: ½ pound of ground chicken. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Add 3 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha. Cook this mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and there’s no liquid left in the pan.
- Once cooked, gently fold in ½ cup of chopped green onions. Turn off the heat and let this filling cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare your egg roll wrappers by laying one on a clean surface with one corner facing you. Place about a tablespoon of the filling in the bottom half of the wrapper.
- Wrap the corner over the filling, then fold the sides in. Continue to roll away from you until you reach the end of the wrapper. Seal the edges with a little water or a beaten egg to ensure they stay closed during frying.
- Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until you have a tray full of rolled egg rolls.
- In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil for frying to fill about 2 inches deep. Preheat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (or 180 degrees Celsius) for optimal frying.
- Carefully add 4 to 5 egg rolls at a time to the hot oil. Fry them for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they turn crisp and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
- Serve the Egg Rolls hot with sweet chili dipping sauce or your favorite condiment!
Things Worth Knowing
- Frying Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the egg rolls to ensure they cook evenly and get crisp.
- Wrapping Technique: Be sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
- Cool Filling: Allow the filling to cool before wrapping; this makes the wrapping process easier.
- Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for the best results.
Recipe Notes about Egg Rolls
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Egg Rolls turn out perfectly every time:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked egg rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: Serve with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to the filling to suit your taste!
- Adjusting Spice: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the filling.
Serving Options for Egg Rolls
There are countless ways to enjoy your homemade Egg Rolls. Here are some ideas to inspire your serving:
- Appetizer: Serve Egg Rolls as a starter at your next dinner party or potluck.
- Snack Time: They make a perfect snack for movie nights or when entertaining friends.
- Meal Pairing: Enjoy them with a side of fried rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, game days, or even festive gatherings like Lunar New Year.
- Leftover Tips: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.
FAQ
Conclusion
Homemade Egg Rolls are a delightful treat that can bring family and friends together. The blend of flavors and textures makes them a favorite for any gathering or cozy night in. I encourage you to try making these crispy bites at home; you’ll love how simple and satisfying they are. Plus, once you master the rolling technique, the possibilities for fillings are endless. Get creative and enjoy the process; I promise these Egg Rolls will become a family favorite!
Egg Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add ½ teaspoon of minced garlic, ½ teaspoon of minced ginger, and ½ cup of finely chopped celery. Sauté these ingredients together for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until they become fragrant and the celery starts to soften.
- Next, stir in 2 cups of coleslaw mix into the pan. Cook this mixture for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage wilts and reduces in volume.
- Now, add in the star of the dish: ½ pound of ground chicken. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Add 3 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha. Cook this mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and there’s no liquid left in the pan.
- Once cooked, gently fold in ½ cup of chopped green onions. Turn off the heat and let this filling cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare your egg roll wrappers by laying one on a clean surface with one corner facing you. Place about a tablespoon of the filling in the bottom half of the wrapper.
- Wrap the corner over the filling, then fold the sides in. Continue to roll away from you until you reach the end of the wrapper. Seal the edges with a little water or a beaten egg to ensure they stay closed during frying.
- Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until you have a tray full of rolled egg rolls.
- In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil for frying to fill about 2 inches deep. Preheat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (or 180 degrees Celsius) for optimal frying.
- Carefully add 4 to 5 egg rolls at a time to the hot oil. Fry them for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they turn crisp and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
- Serve the Egg Rolls hot with sweet chili dipping sauce or your favorite condiment!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked egg rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: Serve with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to the filling to suit your taste!
- Adjusting Spice: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the filling.
