How to Make Perfect Spring Rolls at Home
Ingredients
Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need for a batch of 20 crispy spring rolls:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage – Adds crunch and texture.
- 1 cup grated carrots – Brings natural sweetness and color.
- 1 cup cooked chicken (or ground pork, shrimp, or beef) – Adds protein.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Brings umami and depth.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds aromatic richness.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Provides a mild spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, for thickening) – Helps bind the filling.
- 2 green onions, chopped – Adds freshness.
For the Wrapping:
- 20 spring roll wrappers – Store-bought or homemade.
- 1 egg (for sealing the rolls) – Helps keep them tightly sealed.
- Oil for frying – Vegetable or peanut oil for deep frying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and cooked meat (or shrimp). Stir well.
- Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together.
- Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and stir to combine. This helps the filling hold together when wrapped.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Let the filling cool completely before wrapping.
2. Wrap the Spring Rolls
- Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape (one corner pointing towards you).
- Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the bottom corner.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling and tuck it in.
- Fold in both sides towards the center to create an envelope shape.
- Roll it up tightly and brush the final edge with beaten egg to seal.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers.
Pro Tip: Do not overfill the rolls, as they may burst while frying!
3. Fry the Spring Rolls
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the spring rolls in small batches, 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
For an extra crispy texture, double-fry the rolls by frying them once, letting them rest for 5 minutes, then frying again for 30 seconds.
Alternative Cooking Methods
🔹 Baking Option:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the spring rolls lightly with oil and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
🔹 Air Fryer Option:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush or spray the spring rolls with oil.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
Best Dipping Sauces for Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are even better when paired with a delicious dipping sauce. Try one of these:
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A mix of sugar, vinegar, and chili flakes.
- Soy-Garlic Sauce: Soy sauce, garlic, a bit of honey, and sesame oil.
- Peanut Sauce: Creamy peanut butter mixed with soy sauce and lime juice.
- Vinegar Dipping Sauce: Vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of sugar.
Tips for the Best Spring Rolls
✔ Use fresh vegetables to keep the filling crisp and flavorful.
✔ Let the filling cool completely before wrapping to avoid soggy rolls.
✔ Seal the wrappers properly using an egg wash to prevent leaks.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the frying pan, or they won’t crisp up properly.
✔ Double-fry for extra crunch!
Final Thoughts
Making homemade crispy spring rolls is easier than you think! Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, these golden bites of goodness will surely be a crowd favorite. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in minutes!
💬 Have you tried making spring rolls before? Let me know how they turned out! Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with friends who love crispy snacks. 😊🍽️