For the filling:
1 lb ground pork (or chicken, or shrimp)
2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon ginger
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
For the egg rolls:
1 package egg roll wrappers
1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
Oil for frying
Substitution notes:
No pork? Use chicken or shrimp. No cabbage? Use coleslaw mix.
Let's Make Egg Rolls (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned. Add the cabbage, carrots, green onions, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner facing you. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling. Fold the sides in. Roll it up tightly. Brush the top corner with the beaten egg to seal.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Egg Rolls
Use a good quality oil. Use a high-heat oil like canola or vegetable oil.
Don't overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches.
Roll them tightly. A tight roll prevents them from opening.
Make sure the oil is hot enough. If the oil is not hot enough, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil.
Drain on paper towels. This removes excess oil.
Serve immediately. They are best fresh.
Variations to Make Them Your Own
With Shrimp: Use ground shrimp.
With Vegetables: Use a variety of vegetables.
With Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
With Herbs: Add fresh herbs.
With a Different Filling: Try a different filling.
With a Different Dipping Sauce: Try a different sauce.
What to Serve With Egg Rolls
Sweet and sour sauce
Soy sauce
Duck sauce
Hot mustard
Fried rice
Noodles
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Freezer: They freeze well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, but they won't be as crispy.
Can I use a different type of wrapper?
Yes, spring roll wrappers work too.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate them.
What is the best way to reheat them?
Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, they freeze well.
A Final Thought
When I make these egg rolls, I feel like I'm serving something special. They are the perfect appetizer or main dish.
Have you ever made homemade egg rolls? Share your tips in the comments. 🥟🍜
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