Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4-6 · Technique: Frying · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze before frying.
Quick Answer
Homemade egg rolls can be easily made by preparing a flavorful filling, assembling them with egg roll wrappers, and frying until golden and crispy.
As the leaves turn and the air fills with the spices of autumn, I can’t help but feel the excitement of the upcoming holiday season. Living in New York City, where food culture thrives in every neighborhood, I’ve picked up my fair share of culinary techniques from bustling markets and cozy kitchens. Nothing brings people together quite like a homemade dish, and that’s why I’m thrilled to share my perfected recipe for homemade egg rolls. They are perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday parties, whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for Thanksgiving or a snack during a festive Christmas movie night.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday parties.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Deliciously crunchy on the outside and flavorful on the inside.
- Great as an appetizer or a fun snack for movie nights.
- Leftovers can be easily stored or frozen for later enjoyment.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your homemade egg rolls:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground pork (or chicken if you prefer a lighter option)
- 2 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts, rinsed
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Assembly:
- 20-25 egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil for frying
How to Make Homemade Egg Rolls (Step-by-Step)
Follow these detailed instructions to create delightful homemade egg rolls.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork until browned, about 5-7 minutes. As the pork sizzles, add in the minced garlic and let the aroma fill your kitchen. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots, stirring until they wilt slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Then, fold in the bean sprouts and green onions. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, and continue stirring until everything is combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay out an egg roll wrapper in front of you, positioned like a diamond. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling into the center. Keep a bowl of water handy for sealing the rolls; moisten the edges of the wrapper with your finger. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly, ensuring no filling escapes during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
In a heavy-bottomed pot or large skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until they turn a golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. The enticing aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Once golden, remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, enjoying the satisfying crunch that reveals the delicious filling inside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overstuffing the Rolls: This can lead to breaks and spills while frying. Less is more!
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Filling too hot can make the wrappers soggy and difficult to roll.
- Not Heating the Oil Properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, your egg rolls will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For extra flavor, consider adding water chestnuts or mushrooms to the filling.
- If you prefer baking, brush the rolls with oil and bake at 425°F until crispy, about 20-25 minutes.
- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for added crunch and tang.
- Make sure to seal the wrappers tightly to prevent filling from leaking during frying.
- Letting the filling cool completely will help maintain the crispiness of the egg roll wrappers during frying.
Variations
- Substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Add chopped shrimp or crab to the filling for a seafood twist.
- Use different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini in the filling mix.
- Try different dipping sauces like hoisin, sriracha, or a yogurt-based sauce.
- Experiment with different spices or herbs for a unique flavor profile.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces for guests to choose from.
- Present on a platter with fresh herbs for garnish.
- Enjoy them during a movie night or holiday gathering as a finger food option.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crispy.
- Freezing: Freeze un-fried egg rolls separated by parchment paper in a freezer bag; fry from frozen without thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through all my testing, I’ve discovered that letting the filling cool completely before assembling helps maintain the crispiness of the egg roll wrappers during frying. The joy of making egg rolls is not just in the eating but in the gathering, bringing friends and family together for a warm, delicious experience.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 20-25 egg rolls · Serving Size: 1 egg roll
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 5g protein · 15g carbs · 8g fat
Delicious Homemade Egg Rolls for Any Gathering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and green onions, cooking for about 3-4 minutes. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Lay out an egg roll wrapper diagonally, spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling into the center. Moisten edges with water, fold the bottom over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make the filling a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container.
How can I make egg rolls crispy if I bake them?
To achieve a crispy texture when baking, brush the egg rolls with vegetable oil before placing them in the oven. Bake at 425°F until golden brown, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
What dipping sauces pair well with homemade egg rolls?
Homemade egg rolls are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces. Sweet chili sauce, tangy soy sauce blends, or even a spicy mustard sauce work great!
